Bologna's Vincenzo Italiano Celebrates Coppa Italia Final Win Dedicated To The People Of Bologna

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Bologna's head coach, Vincenzo Italiano, expressed the significance of reaching the Coppa Italia final for the city. The team secured their spot by defeating Empoli 2-1 at home in the semi-final second leg, following a 3-0 victory in the first leg. This marks Italiano's fourth final appearance in three seasons, having previously reached the Conference League finals twice with Fiorentina and the Coppa Italia final in 2023.

Italiano reflected on this achievement, stating it was a dream for both the city and club. "We achieved something wonderful, honouring the Coppa Italia since the start," he told Sport Mediaset, as quoted by Football Italia. He dedicated this success to Bologna's passionate fans who support the team tirelessly. "We dedicate it to the people of Bologna with all our heart," he added.

Despite their defeat, Empoli's head coach Roberto D'Aversa took pride in his team's performance. Empoli reached their first-ever Coppa Italia semi-final by eliminating Torino, Fiorentina, and Juventus. Although they fell short of reaching the final, D'Aversa praised his players' efforts. "We leave this historic semi-final with our heads held high," he said.

D'Aversa acknowledged that mistakes in the first leg cost them dearly against one of Italy's top teams. However, he commended his players' focus during the second leg. He believes maintaining this spirit will help them remain competitive in Serie A as they prepare to face Fiorentina next.

Italiano joined Bologna at a time when expectations were low due to key departures, including head coach Thiago Motta and players Riccardo Calafiori and Joshua Zirkzee. Despite these challenges, Bologna now sits fourth in Serie A and is set to play their first Coppa Italia final since 1974.

Italiano expressed his satisfaction with reaching the final. "I am happy to be in the final," he said. The owners had expressed their desire to succeed in a tournament, and now there is just one more step left to take.

Challenges and Growth

The transition was challenging initially due to changes in coaching staff and key players after last season's achievements. Italiano believes participating in the Champions League helped improve their mentality and strength. These lessons were carried into Serie A and Coppa Italia campaigns.

He emphasised that building on past successes required getting into players' minds to introduce new ideas while maintaining strong foundations. Fortunately, Italiano found a hardworking group eager to contribute positively to Bologna's journey.

Bologna will face Udinese next before taking on AC Milan in the Coppa Italia final. Meanwhile, Empoli prepares for an important match against Fiorentina as they fight for Serie A survival.