Bologna is inching closer to the Coppa Italia final after a commanding 3-0 victory over Empoli in the first leg of their semi-final clash at the Stadio Carlo Castellani on April 1, 2025. The match was a display of dominance from the visitors, who showcased their attacking prowess and tactical superiority under coach Vincenzo Italiano.
The match began with Bologna immediately asserting control, as they created early opportunities to test Empoli's defense. Just two minutes in, Riccardo Orsolini nearly found the back of the net, signaling Bologna's intent. It wasn't long before they broke the deadlock, with Orsolini scoring in the 23rd minute. He capitalized on a defensive lapse by Empoli, finishing powerfully after receiving a cross from Odgaard.
Only six minutes later, Bologna doubled their lead through striker Dallinga, who displayed excellent technique with a deft touch to guide the ball past Empoli goalkeeper Seghetti. Dallinga's strike came after a well-worked move that left the Empoli defense scrambling.
The second half saw Bologna continue their offensive onslaught. Just six minutes after the restart, Dallinga struck again, scoring his second goal of the match. This time, he was set up by Ndoye, who delivered a precise ball into the box, allowing Dallinga to simply push it into the net. With a 3-0 lead, Bologna had effectively sealed the match and placed one foot firmly in the final.
Empoli struggled to respond throughout the contest. Despite their efforts to regroup, they only managed a few half-chances, with Gyasi's shot narrowly missing the target in the second half being their best opportunity to score. Bologna's defense, marshaled by Beukema and Lucumí, held firm against any threat posed by the home side.
As the match progressed, Bologna continued to press for more goals, nearly extending their lead on several occasions. Cambiaghi came close, hitting the post in the dying moments of the game, while Seghetti was forced into action to deny further attempts from Dallinga and Ferguson.
The atmosphere in the stadium was electric, with over 4,000 passionate Bologna fans in attendance, cheering their team on. The victory not only boosts Bologna's confidence but also puts them in a strong position ahead of the return leg at the Stadio Dall'Ara on April 24, 2025.
However, the match wasn't without its setbacks for Bologna. Defender Calabria suffered a knee injury during the match, raising concerns about his fitness ahead of upcoming fixtures. Coach Italiano will be hoping for good news regarding his condition as they prepare for a crucial Serie A match against Napoli on April 7, 2025.
With this win, Bologna has now set their sights on the Coppa Italia final, scheduled for May 14, 2025, at the Stadio Olimpico. If they maintain their current form, the final could be a historic occasion for the club, which is eager to claim silverware.
As the dust settles on this semi-final first leg, the focus shifts to the return match, where Empoli will need to mount a remarkable comeback to overturn the deficit. For Bologna, the path to the final appears clearer, but they must remain vigilant to secure their place among Italy's elite.
