Bologna secured a historic 1-0 victory over AC Milan in the Coppa Italia final on May 14, 2025, at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. The win marked their first major trophy in over half a century, the last coming in 1974, and capped a remarkable season under manager Vincenzo Italiano.
The match began with intensity and physicality, as both sides sought to gain an early advantage. AC Milan entered the game as favorites, boasting a squad rich in individual talent and experience. However, Bologna showed no signs of intimidation, matching Milan’s tempo and discipline from the outset. The first half was a tense, tactical affair, with both teams managing a few shots on goal but failing to break the deadlock. Goalkeepers Mike Maignan for Milan and Lukasz Skorupski for Bologna were called into action, producing crucial saves that kept the game level.
The breakthrough came in the 53rd minute, courtesy of a defensive error by Milan’s Theo Hernandez. Attempting to intercept a ball inside his own box, Hernandez misjudged the bounce and ended up slipping, inadvertently gifting possession to Dan Ndoye. The Swiss international calmly took his chance, slotting the ball past Maignan to give Bologna a stunning 1-0 lead. The goal proved to be the decisive moment in a match that would ultimately swing Bologna’s way.
Milan pushed for an equalizer, introducing attacking changes and increasing their tempo. Christian Pulisic, who had been vital to Milan’s offensive success throughout the season, had an uncharacteristically quiet evening. Despite playing for 87 minutes, he failed to influence the game significantly or create any notable chances. Luka Jovic and Rafael Leão also found it difficult to break down Bologna’s compact and resolute defense.
One of the game’s most inspiring performances came from Bologna captain Lewis Ferguson. The Scottish midfielder suffered a facial injury after a clash with Leão but refused to come off, continuing to marshal his teammates and dictate the pace in midfield. His gritty determination and leadership under pressure were central to Bologna’s ability to hold their shape and absorb Milan’s attacks.
Statistically, the game was relatively balanced. Possession was split nearly evenly with Ac milan having 54% to Bologna’s 46%, Ac Milan had 2 shots on target to Bologna’s 5. However, Bologna made their chances count, and Milan’s inefficiency in the final third proved costly. The match also featured the same number of fouls(11) and yellow cards Ac Milan had 2 while Bologna had 3, underscoring the combative nature of the final.
For Bologna, the victory represents not just a trophy but a turning point. It is a validation of the club’s long-term planning, their faith in young players, and the vision of manager Vincenzo Italiano. It also guarantees them a place in next season’s UEFA competitions, offering a platform to build on this year’s success.
For AC Milan, the result is a bitter disappointment. Having struggles on the Serie A table where they’re currently 8th, this was a chance to salvage silverware and cement their status. Instead, questions will be asked about tactical decisions, squad depth, and whether manager Sergio Conceição can steer the team back to consistent winning form. The loss may also complicate their European qualification hopes, with fierce competition in the league table.
After Bologna’s historic triumph over AC Milan in the Coppa Italia final, both managers shared their post-match reflections, and the standout performer of the evening was rightly recognized.
Vincenzo Italiano (Bologna Manager):
Speaking with emotion and pride, Italiano hailed his players’ spirit and composure:
"This is an unforgettable night. We wrote history. The players gave everything, fought for every ball, and believed from the first whistle to the last. I couldn’t be prouder. We knew Milan were dangerous, but we stayed compact, disciplined, and waited for our chance. Dan [Ndoye] took his goal brilliantly, and from there, it was about managing the game with intelligence and heart. This trophy belongs to the city of Bologna and every supporter who stood by us."
Italiano also praised his captain:
"Lewis Ferguson showed incredible character. He took a bad knock, but he never wanted to come off. That’s what leadership looks like."
Sérgio Conceição (AC Milan Manager):
A visibly disappointed Conceição kept his comments brief, acknowledging his side's shortcomings:
"It’s a painful result. Finals are about moments, and we didn’t manage ours well. The goal we conceded was avoidable, and we lacked sharpness in the final third. Bologna defended well and took their chance. It’s a tough one to accept, but we have to take responsibility, regroup, and look forward."
He declined to comment on speculation about his future, simply stating:
"Tonight is about the match. I’ll speak about other things in due time."
The Bologna Swiss winger Dan Ndoye was named Man of the Match after scoring the only goal of the game and relentlessly tormenting Milan’s defense with his pace and energy. His 53rd-minute strike proved decisive and showcased composure under pressure, capitalizing on a rare mistake by Theo Hernandez.
Ndoye was ecstatic post-match:
"It’s the best feeling of my career. I saw the ball fall for me, and I just focused on staying calm and hitting it clean. To score in a final, to help Bologna win after 50 years—it's beyond words. This team deserves it, the fans deserve it. We made history together."
His performance, combining offensive threat with defensive work rate, made him the clear standout on the night.
As Bologna fans celebrate one of the greatest nights in the club’s history, the result sends a clear message across Italian football: the traditional powers can no longer take victories for granted. With smart recruitment, clear leadership, and belief, even the underdogs can rise to the top.
