Bologna, Italy – On April 24, 2025, Bologna FC 1909 will take on Empoli FC at Stadio Renato Dall'Ara for the second leg of their Coppa Italia semi-final. Bologna leads by three goals after a dominant first leg performance, as they look to secure a place in the final against AC Milan.
Bologna’s confidence soared after they thrashed Empoli 3-0 on the road at Stadio Carlo Castellani, with Riccardo Orsolini opening the scoring and Thijs Dallinga adding two more. This victory has put the Rossoblu on the brink of their first cup final appearance since 1974, a notable achievement as they hunt for silverware after decades.
“We have to finish the job at home,” said Bologna coach Vincenzo Italiano. “The team’s spirit is high, and we aim to manage the game effectively while aiming for victory,” he added, referencing their impressive momentum, including a crucial last-minute victory against Serie A leaders Inter Milan last weekend.
Meanwhile, Empoli comes into this match amid a relegation battle, having failed to win any of their last 17 league matches. Consequently, they are struggling near the bottom of Serie A, sitting 19th, with their last victory occurring back in December. Manager Roberto D'Aversa has prioritized league survival, indicating that a makeshift lineup is likely to take the pitch.
“We are feeling the pressure. It’s about survival in the league first, but we aim to salvage some pride in this cup tie,” D’Aversa remarked during a recent press briefing.
Empoli’s cup run has been commendable, defeating Torino and Juventus in earlier rounds, marking their furthest progression in the competition. Their semifinal qualification is unprecedented in the club’s history, but injuries have hampered their performance, leaving them shorthanded against Bologna’s attacking prowess.
Bologna, now aiming for consecutive success, boasts strong historical results against Empoli, remaining unbeaten in their last five encounters. This season’s Serie A meetings between the two sides resulted in two draws (1-1), but with Bologna’s current form, they are favorites to clinch a place in the final.
The game kicks off at 20:00 local time, as fans anticipate Bologna to solidify their advantage while Empoli seeks any chance to make a comeback.
