In a dramatic clash at the San Siro, AC Milan rallied from a goal down to defeat Bologna 3-1 on May 9, 2025, a result that left Bologna's coach Vincenzo Italiano searching for answers ahead of the impending Coppa Italia Final. The match served as a preview for the teams' upcoming showdown in Rome, where Bologna will aim for their first trophy in 51 years.
The game started brightly for Bologna, with Riccardo Orsolini finding the net early on. However, the tide turned dramatically in the final quarter of the match when Milan, powered by substitutes Santiago Gimenez and Christian Pulisic, scored three unanswered goals. Gimenez netted twice, while Pulisic added another, sealing the victory for the Rossoneri.
Italiano, visibly frustrated, reflected on the game’s decisive moments, stating, "I cannot explain the 15-minute blackout." This period of poor performance allowed Milan to capitalize on Bologna's mistakes and shift the momentum entirely. "We were in control of the game, had chances to score a second goal, but there was a 15-minute blackout that I cannot explain," he told Sky Sport Italia.
The Bologna manager had opted to rotate his squad, resting key players in anticipation of the Coppa Italia Final against the same opponents on May 14. Despite this strategy, the loss at San Siro highlighted concerns about the depth and impact of his substitutes. "Usually, our substitutes come on and shake things up, but this time it was the opponents who did that," Italiano lamented.
During the match, Italiano brought on players like Cambiaghi, Aebischer, and Castro, hoping to inject fresh energy into the game. However, the substitutions failed to have the desired effect, and Bologna's performance deteriorated. "It’s a pity, as those 15 minutes ruined a good overall performance," he added.
As Bologna prepares for the Coppa Italia Final, the team is coming off a disappointing run in Serie A, having earned just two points from their last three matches. This recent form raises questions about their ability to compete against a Milan side that is brimming with confidence after their comeback victory.
Despite the setback, Italiano remains optimistic about his team's chances in the final. "Disappointment is natural and a good sign, because it means we will try to do differently on Wednesday and analyze what we did wrong, which was all in those final 15 minutes plus added time," he stated. He emphasized the importance of the upcoming match, noting, "This match will be part of the history of this club. We’ve shown character in 2025, great intensity; it is a big game for the club and the city, so we won’t get the wrong attitude there."
Bologna's last appearance in a Coppa Italia Final was over five decades ago, and the prospect of lifting the trophy is a significant motivator for the players. Italiano is keenly aware of the stakes, stating, "We could make history. It would be the icing on the cake for our journey." He expressed confidence in his squad, insisting they will not repeat the mistakes made against Milan.
Looking ahead, Italiano is hopeful that some of the players who were rested will be fit to contribute in the final. "I hope to have them all on Wednesday to add the quality needed to win matches," he said. The coach also recognized the need for a tactical adjustment, suggesting that Bologna must better handle Milan's ability to switch formations during the game. "We knew it but we lost our way there," he commented.
The Coppa Italia Final promises to be an electrifying encounter, with both teams desperate for victory. Bologna will need to demonstrate resilience and focus, especially after their recent struggles. Italiano’s message to his players is clear: "Wednesday will be a different game and a different story, also because we will recover some players."
As the countdown to the final begins, Bologna fans are hopeful that their team can turn the tide and secure a long-awaited trophy. The stakes couldn’t be higher as they prepare to face a formidable Milan side, who will undoubtedly carry the momentum from their recent victory. The final at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome is set for May 14, 2025, at 21:00 CEST, and promises to be a historic occasion for Bologna.
In conclusion, Bologna's recent performance against Milan serves as a wake-up call. With a chance to make history on the line, they must learn from their mistakes and approach the final with renewed determination. The journey to the trophy begins now, and Bologna is ready to rise to the occasion.
