Messina won the Strait derby on 31 October 2004, defeating Reggina 2‑1 at the San Filippo stadium in Messina. The decisive goal, scored by Arturo Di Napoli, ended the match in spectacular fashion, confirming the surprise of Bortolo Mutti's team at the start of the season.
The match was launched by the Calabrian Emiliano Bonazzoli, who opened the scoring in the 32nd minute with a precise shot from midfield. Reggina, led by Walter Mazzarri, responded quickly: in the 64th minute Zampagna equalized, changing direction of the match and giving new hope to the Peloritani. The tension increased when, in the 74th minute, Di Napoli scored the header that guaranteed Messina victory. The final result was 2‑1 in favor of the Messina club.
Messina showed a strong defensive organization thanks to goalkeeper Storari and central defenders Zanchi, Aronica and the Iranian Rezaei. In midfield the duo of Coppola and Donati supported the team, while Parisi offered thrust from the left wing. In attack, Di Napoli and Zampagna led the offensive phase, with Nick Amoruso ready to intervene if necessary. Coach Mutti was able to make the most of his players' abilities, keeping the team in control of the match until the last minute.
Reggina, on the other hand, had a solid performance but not enough to counter the Messina attack. Mesto and Mozart, Paredes and Nakamura tried to create chances, but the Messina defense managed to contain the attacks. Coach Mazzarri risked being benched after the defeat, but managed to convince goalkeeper Foti not to sack him, thus maintaining the continuity of the team.
With this victory, Messina positioned itself in a favorable position in the league table, consolidating its reputation as a team capable of surprising. Reggina, on the other hand, will have to reconsider their strategy to recover points in the next matches. The analysis of the results suggests that Messina will continue to play with determination, while Reggina will have to work on defense and attack to get back on track.