Empoli Football Club has made history by defeating Juventus 5-3 on penalties following a dramatic 1-1 draw at the Allianz Stadium, marking their first-ever semifinal appearance in the Coppa Italia. The match unfolded as expected on February 21, 2025, with the iconic Juventus club aiming to secure their place among the tournament's elite. Nonetheless, it was Empoli, racing against the odds, who emerged victorious.
The opening half saw Empoli take the early lead when Youssef Maleh scored a stunning goal at the 24th minute. The powerful strike left Juventus goalkeeper Mattia Perin with little chance as the ball rocketed past him, sending the traveling Empoli fans, who had their hopes tempered by recent struggles, erupting with joy.
Juventus struggled to maintain their usual dominance and failed to capitalize on several opportunities, including notable misses from forward Nico Gonzalez. Despite their inefficiency, the Bianconeri found their footing later on. Khephren Thuram responded for Juventus with a spectacular goal at the 66th minute, skillfully maneuvering through defenders before equalizing with finesse.
After the regulation time concluded with the score knotted at 1-1, the match moved to penalties, setting the stage for intense drama under the anxious gaze of both teams’ supporters. Juventus was the first to step up for the shootouts, with Vlahovic designated as the opener. Unfortunately for the Serbian forward, the pressure proved too much as he remarkably blasted his attempt high over the bar, placing his team on the back foot.
Following Vlahovic's failed attempt, Empoli's Liam Henderson took his chance confidently, successfully converting to give his team the early advantage. Juventus maintained the sequence with Kolo Muani leveling the score. Successive penalties saw both teams trading successes and misses. While Locatelli shot true for Juventus, Kenan Yildiz faltered badly, sending his kick wide of the post as Vasquez got ready for the challenge of preserving Empoli's lead.
Empoli cemented their first-ever semifinal spot when Marianucci, Empoli's promising young tackler, executed the decisive penalty. This historic victory has propelled them to face Bologna, who awaits them after their own quarterfinal triumph.
Juventus's coach Thiago Motta voiced his anguish post-match, magnifying the struggles his team faced. "What does such an evening leave us? Shame," he commented to Mediaset, reflecting on what he termed as embarrassing performances. He emphasized the necessity for his players to recognize the significance of donning the Juventus jersey and the obligation to perform at their best.
"I don’t accept this behavior or attitude on the pitch," continued Motta, citing the need for mental resilience and commitment. His acknowledgment of the need for change resonates amid Juventus's mixed fortunes, contrasting sharply with their earlier winning streak of four consecutive league victories.
Despite Juve’s shortcomings, Empoli, weathering through their recent Serie A struggles – they found themselves perilously low on points throughout the league – seized the monumental opportunity this Coppa Italia night provided. Roberto D'Aversa, the mastermind behind Empoli’s revival, has significantly transformed the side, steering his players through high-pressure situations and nurturing talent to achieve commendable results against storied opponents.
The emphatic display against Juventus fosters hope for Empoli's supporters and players alike, reinstilling faith during their turbulent season. Sectioned off under the pressure of high-stakes football, this young team boldly took their stand and claimed victory. Besides the allure of the next match against Bologna, the undeniable belief now stands: Empoli can compete and can win on big nights.
With the Empoli fans buzzing from this monumental achievement, the anticipation for the upcoming semifinal awaits, enclosing every supporter with excitement and hope. This match not only signifies progress for Empoli but leaves Juventus pondering their future, staring back across the field where glory and disappointment danced together on this night.