As the clock ticks down to the highly anticipated Coppa Italia Frecciarossa semi-final clash, Bologna prepares to face off against Empoli on April 24, 2025, at the iconic Stadio Renato Dall'Ara in Bologna. With a commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg, the Rossoblù are on the brink of a historic return to the final, a feat they haven't achieved since 1974. The stakes are high, and the atmosphere promises to be electric as fans gather to support their teams.
This match marks the 32nd encounter between Bologna and Empoli, with the historical record standing at 9 victories for Empoli, 13 draws, and 9 wins for Bologna. When it comes to matches played in Bologna, the home team boasts 6 wins, while Empoli has managed 3 victories, with 6 matches ending in draws. The last meeting in Bologna resulted in a 1-1 stalemate last August, where Fabbian scored for Empoli before Gyasi equalized.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time these teams have faced each other in the Coppa Italia. Their previous encounter in this prestigious tournament took place on October 24, 2001, when Empoli triumphed 3-1, thanks to a double from Maccarone and a goal from Bonetto. Fast forward to today, and Bologna has not lost a home game since December 30, 2024, when they fell 2-3 to Verona in Serie A. Since then, they have secured 8 wins and 2 draws in their last 10 home outings, scoring in 15 consecutive matches at Dall'Ara, accumulating a total of 34 goals.
Bologna's journey in the Coppa Italia has been historic. This season marks their 76th participation in the tournament, and they have not reached the semi-finals in over 26 years, with their last appearance being in the 1998/99 season. Back then, they were eliminated by Fiorentina. The club has lifted the Coppa Italia trophy twice, in 1969/70 and 1973/74, and they are eager to add a third title to their cabinet.
On the other hand, Empoli is making history in their own right. This season marks their 45th participation in the Coppa Italia, and they have reached the semi-finals for the first time, having previously only made it to the quarter-finals in the 1985/86 and 2006/07 editions. Empoli is the first team not based in a provincial capital to reach the last four since Cesena gained its autonomy.
However, Empoli's current form is concerning. They have not won an official match since December 8, 2024, when they defeated Hellas Verona 4-1. Following that victory, they have struggled immensely, recording 6 draws and 14 losses across all competitions. The pressure is on as they look to turn their fortunes around against a formidable Bologna side.
In terms of personnel, Bologna has some former Empoli players in their ranks. Cambiaghi, who played for Empoli from 2022 to 2024, has made 66 appearances and scored 8 goals for the club. Casale featured for Empoli during the 2020/21 Serie B season, while Skorupski was with Empoli from 2015 to 2017 before moving back to Roma and eventually to Bologna.
The match will be officiated by Matteo Marcenaro from Genoa, who has overseen several previous encounters involving both teams. Historically, neither team has won under his officiating, with Marcenaro's previous matches with Bologna resulting in two draws and a loss, while he has yet to win against Empoli.
Coaches Vincenzo Italiano and Roberto D'Aversa have their own narratives heading into this match. Italiano, who has a 2-1 record against D'Aversa in their last eight encounters, has emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and not underestimating their opponents, despite the comfortable aggregate lead. He stated, “We must be concentrated from the first minute because we are playing for a piece of history.” He hopes to see a strong turnout of Bologna supporters as they aim to bring 30,000 fans to Rome for the final.
Italiano's squad has been managing injuries, allowing them to rotate players effectively. He confirmed that Dallinga would start as the center forward, while Ferguson, who has been recovering, will be on the bench. The coach expressed confidence in his team's ability to handle the situation, stating, “There’s no need to take unnecessary risks.”
As the teams prepare for this pivotal match, the anticipation builds. Bologna aims to secure their place in the final, where they would face either Inter or Milan, while Empoli hopes to defy the odds and stage a remarkable comeback. With both teams having much to prove, the stage is set for an unforgettable night of Italian football.
In conclusion, the Coppa Italia semi-final between Bologna and Empoli promises to be a thrilling encounter. With history on the line and the prospect of reaching the final within reach, both teams will be eager to leave it all on the pitch. As the countdown continues, fans are left wondering: can Bologna maintain their dominance, or will Empoli rise to the occasion and pull off a stunning upset?
