Super Sub Castro Propels Bologna to Coppa Italia Semi-Finals, Ousting Atalanta

Bologna secured their spot in the semi-finals of the Coppa Italia with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Atalanta in Bergamo, continuing their impressive unbeaten streak across all competitions since the beginning of the year.

The first noteworthy opportunity of the match came early in the first half, just seven minutes in, when Atalanta’s Charles De Ketelaere seized a through ball and unleashed a powerful shot aimed at goal. However, Bologna’s goalkeeper, Lukasz Skorupski, showcased his skills with an excellent save.

As the match progressed, Bologna began to establish their presence, generating a series of chances that culminated in Jens Odgaard narrowly missing the target from the edge of the box. Unfortunately for Odgaard, he had to leave the field due to injury, making way for Benjamin Dominguez.

Both teams had additional opportunities to score before the half-time whistle. Atalanta’s Isak Hien sent a shot just wide from the edge of the area, while Jhon Lucumí attempted a long-range effort for Bologna, which was comfortably dealt with by Rui Patrício.

The second half mirrored the first in terms of intensity, with Atalanta showing the stronger start. Skorupski once again was called into action, making a crucial low save to thwart a shot from Raoul Bellanova.

Mario Pasalic then tried his luck with a shot from just outside the box, but Skorupski was alert to the danger and collected the ball with ease. Bologna’s first sight of goal in the second half came around the hour mark when the ball fell kindly to Tommaso Pobega inside the box; however, his shot went inches wide of the mark.

As the match wore on, Atalanta intensified their efforts, forcing Skorupski into action on several occasions as he denied attempts from Marco Brescianini and Daniel Maldini within the area. However, Bologna remained a threat on the counter, with Rui Patrício making a superb save to thwart a shot from Emil Holm.

In a pivotal moment just 10 minutes from the end, Bologna took the lead through Santiago Castro, who soared above the defenders to nod the ball home from a free-kick, igniting celebrations among the travelling fans.

This victory allowed Bologna to dream of reaching their first Coppa Italia final since 1974, the year they last claimed the title, and marked their third consecutive win on the road against Atalanta.