Bologna Dominates Empoli on Route to Coppa Italia Final

Thijs Dallinga’s double secured a crucial victory for Bologna, placing them on the brink of reaching the Coppa Italia final for the first time since 1974, following a 3-0 triumph over Empoli in the first leg of their semi-final clash.

The former champions came within a whisker of taking an early lead as Dallinga forced a superb save from Empoli’s goalkeeper Jacopo Seghetti right from the outset.

Just a minute later, Riccardo Orsolini nearly followed suit but his effort went wide, much to the disappointment of his teammates and fans alike.

However, the visitors’ perseverance paid off in the 23rd minute when Orsolini skillfully slotted the ball past Seghetti, much to the delight of national manager Luciano Spalletti, who was observing the match closely.

Empoli’s situation took a turn for the worse six minutes later when Dan Ndoye delivered a brilliant pass that allowed Dallinga to take a deft touch before finding the far corner of the net with his shot.

Empoli managed their first shot on target just six minutes before half-time, but Lukasz Skorupski was equal to the task, preserving his clean sheet with a smart save from Ola Solbakken’s attempt.

Empoli’s aspirations of creating a miraculous comeback were dashed just six minutes into the second half, as a repeat of the earlier goal saw Ndoye provide another assist for Dallinga, who seized the opportunity to complete his brace.

Orsolini had a chance to seal the match in the 68th minute but, seeking his first international call-up since June, he was denied by Seghetti.

Regardless, Bologna’s dominant performance ensured they head into the second leg—scheduled for later this month—as strong favourites to face either AC or Inter Milan in the final.

On the other hand, Empoli’s wait for their inaugural trophy will likely extend at least another year, with Roberto D’Aversa’s side now shifting focus to their battle for survival in Serie A.