Mehdi Dorval delivered an impressive individual performance on Sunday as Bari were held to a frustrating draw against Modena in their Serie B play-off race.
The Algerian defender, who has often been in the headlines this season for the wrong reasons following repeated racist abuse, let his football do the talking with a standout display at the Stadio San Nicola.
Bari, chasing a vital win to strengthen their play-off hopes, instead saw Modena fight back to claim a crucial point and remain firmly in the promotion battle.
Dorval, originally a natural right-back but deployed on the left side of defence this season, produced one of his most complete performances of the campaign.
Demonstrating poise at both ends of the pitch, the 22-year-old consistently thwarted Modena’s attacks while also posing a constant threat going forward.
Statistically, Dorval’s contribution was undeniable. He won five of his six duels, completed nearly all of his dribbles, and came agonisingly close to scoring an equaliser with a powerful header that flashed just wide of the post.
His determination and attacking drive eventually forced Modena into a critical error late in the match. With Bari pushing for a winner on a fast counterattack, Dorval surged down the flank and drew a desperate foul from Modena’s Di Pardo, who was shown a straight red card in the 81st minute.
Despite Dorval’s efforts, Bari were unable to capitalise fully on their numerical advantage. The result leaves them locked in a tight battle for the final play-off spots, with direct promotion now out of reach.
The club from Puglia had a golden opportunity to create a six-point cushion over Modena, but instead saw their rivals draw level on points with the result.
Dorval’s consistent form comes at a crucial time for Bari, who have had a turbulent season marked by inconsistency and off-field distractions.
Having been heavily linked with a move to Serie A during the winter transfer window, Dorval chose to remain with Bari and continue his development.
His loyalty and performances have made him a favourite among the club’s supporters, who continue to rally behind the young Algerian despite the challenges he has faced.
The match against Modena was further evidence of Dorval’s growing maturity. His defensive solidity, combined with his ability to spark attacks from deep positions, offered Bari a reliable outlet throughout a tense encounter.
Even as the pressure mounted in the final stages, Dorval maintained his composure and almost inspired a dramatic late victory.
Bari’s promotion ambitions remain alive, but their margin for error has become slimmer following Sunday’s result. For Dorval, however, the match was another reminder of his rising stock in Italian football.
With a few crucial games left to determine their fate, Bari will be hoping their versatile full-back continues to perform at this level.
The draw may have complicated Bari’s route to Serie A, but Dorval’s display has only strengthened his reputation as one of the league’s most promising defenders. In a season overshadowed by ugly incidents, his football is sending a far more powerful message.
Mehdi Dorval VS Modena. [ 2001 ]
Dernière ligne droite. 🔜🇩🇿 pic.twitter.com/3T3VVWFMY2
— 𝗠𝗘𝗥𝗖𝗨. 🔍🇩🇿 (@CompsMercu) April 25, 2025
