Padovani was sentenced after stalking and fatally beating Alessandra Matteuzzi with a hammer

Italian footballer Giovanni Padovani has been sentenced to life in prison for the brutal murder of his ex-girlfriend, Alessandra Matteuzzi. The tragic incident occurred on August 23, 2022, outside Matteuzzi’s home in Bologna, northern Italy. Padovani, a former centre-back who played for Sancataldese, attacked Matteuzzi in a garden near her apartment, using a hammer as his weapon.

The court heard that Matteuzzi had been on the phone with her sister, Stefania when the attack took place. Stefania heard her sister scream as Padovani began the assault. Matteuzzi initially survived the attack but later succumbed to her injuries in the hospital.

Reports indicate that Padovani and Matteuzzi had dated for about a year but had spent most of their time apart, as Matteuzzi lived in Bologna while Padovani worked in Sicily. The relationship reportedly deteriorated, leading to a violent confrontation in January 2022, during which Padovani smashed dishes and a light at Matteuzzi’s home. After their breakup, Padovani began stalking Matteuzzi, bombarding her with messages and calls, prompting her to report him to the police.

Padovani’s actions were deemed premeditated and aggravated by his stalking and predatory behaviour. Despite his attempt to claim he was not in a fit state of mind during the attack, the court sentenced him to life in prison. Padovani expressed remorse in court, acknowledging the severity of his actions.

Following the sentencing, Stefania, Alessandra’s sister, broke down in tears, describing the loss of her sister as a devastating burden. The case has shocked Italy, highlighting the dangers of domestic violence and the tragic consequences that can result from such behaviour.