Bologna celebrated a historic triumph at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, clinching the Coppa Italia by narrowly defeating AC Milan. The 1-0 result marked the club’s first significant silverware since 1974.
Dan Ndoye scored the match-winner, reacting quickest to a loose ball in the penalty area and smashing a strike beyond the Milan goalkeeper. The goal was enough to secure Bologna’s place in next season’s Europa League.
The victory also brought long-awaited success to manager Vincenzo Italiano. The 47-year-old, who joined from Fiorentina last summer, had suffered three cup final defeats in the past two campaigns. Replacing Thiago Motta, now dismissed by Juventus, Italiano finally claimed his first major honor.
“We earned this result,” said Italiano after the match. “The players showed quality and determination. The supporters deserved this night.”
Milan miss out as pressure builds on Conceicao
Milan’s hopes of lifting their first Coppa Italia since 2003 were dashed despite several close chances. Luka Jovic came closest before half-time, but Lukasz Skorupski produced two crucial saves in quick succession to preserve Bologna’s lead.
In the first half, Lewis Ferguson – who captained Bologna and previously played for Hamilton and Aberdeen – sent a shot over the target from a distance. The Scottish midfielder was a key figure throughout the evening.
After the defeat, Milan boss Sergio Conceicao reflected on the performance and admitted disappointment. “There’s a lot to think about tonight,” he said. “I’ve been in this game a long time. I need to understand what more could’ve been done. We’ll end the season with professionalism and assess my situation afterwards.”
Milan currently sit eighth in Serie A and remain uncertain of a place in European competition next term. The pressure continues to mount on Conceicao as the season nears its conclusion.
Historic breakthrough for Bologna
With this win, Bologna broke the dominance of Italy’s traditional powerhouses. Since 2008, every Coppa Italia had been won by Juventus, Inter Milan, Napoli or Lazio.
Now, Bologna have written a new chapter in their history. Powered by a goal from Swiss international Ndoye and guided by a determined manager, the club delivered a night to remember for their fans – ending a 51-year wait for major honours.
