Coppa Italia Semi-Final: Empoli Host High-Flying Bologna in First Leg Clash

In-Depth Analysis

## Empoli's Fairytale Run Meets Bologna's Brilliance

Empoli's journey to the Coppa Italia semi-finals is nothing short of extraordinary. Sitting deep in the Serie A relegation zone after failing to win any of their last 15 league matches, their cup form has been a stark contrast. After dispatching Catanzaro and Torino, Roberto D'Aversa's men achieved stunning penalty shootout victories away at Tuscan rivals Fiorentina and giants Juventus. However, their squad depth is severely tested, with Liam Henderson suspended and key players like Youssef Maleh, Szymon Zurkowski, Ardian Ismajli, and Pietro Pellegri sidelined through injury.

Bologna, under Vincenzo Italiano, are enjoying a stellar season. Building on last year's success, they briefly participated in the Champions League and are currently fourth in Serie A. Their Coppa Italia path saw them overcome Monza (4-0) and Atalanta (1-0 away). The Rossoblu arrive at the Castellani brimming with confidence, having won their last five competitive matches, including a recent 1-0 away win at Venezia. Star forward Riccardo Orsolini is in scintillating form, supported by Dan Ndoye and Thijs Dallinga, though Santiago Castro is unavailable due to injury. Historically, matches between these sides have been close, with two 1-1 draws already this season in Serie A, and Empoli's last victory dating back to May 2023.

**Potential Lineups:** * **Empoli (Possible):** Silvestri/Seghetti; De Sciglio, Marianucci, Cacace/Tosto; Gyasi, Bacci/Kovalenko, Grassi, Pezzella; Fazzini, Solbakken/Esposito; Colombo/Kouame * **Bologna (Possible):** Skorupski/Ravaglia; Calabria/Holm, Beukema, Lucumi, Miranda; Freuler, Ferguson/Pobega; Orsolini, Odgaard, Ndoye; Dallinga

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FAQ

Takeaways

• Empoli face a huge task, needing to replicate their cup giant-killing form against a confident Bologna side, despite significant injury woes.
• Bologna view this as a major opportunity to reach a cup final and potentially win their first Coppa Italia in 50 years.
• Keep an eye on Riccardo Orsolini – his attacking prowess could be the difference-maker for Bologna.
• The first leg result will be crucial, setting the stage for the return fixture at Bologna's Stadio Renato Dall'Ara on April 24th.

Discussion

Can Empoli continue their fairytale cup run, or will Bologna's form prove too strong? Let us know!

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