Vincenzo Italiano has claimed that reaching the Coppa Italia final is a ‘dream’ for Bologna, and they are gearing up to face AC Milan.
Bologna’s 2-1 win last night against Empoli in the second leg secured a 5-1 aggregate victory in the semi-final and in turn their first cup final in 51 years. They will face a Milan side who are struggling in the league but beat the Serie A table-toppers Inter 4-1 on aggregate.
It promises to be a compelling final in Rome next month between two sides who have had a bit of a drought when it comes to the Coppa Italia. Given they are currently well in the top four race while the Rossoneri languish in ninth, the Rossoblu might well be the favourites on paper.
Italiano spoke to SportMediaset after the full-time whistle last night and revealed his emotions after reaching yet another final as a coach, with Calciomercato.com relaying his comments.
“It was a goal, the dream of this city and the club: we have honoured this competition from the beginning, when you get to the final rush everyone is interested in getting to the end. We dedicate this final to the people of Bologna, who push us so much,” he said.
“I am happy for this goal, when I met the owners they had the desire to get to the end in this cup and we achieved it. There is another step missing, but we have already entered history: bringing this enthusiasm to the capital is a source of pride.
“At the beginning there was a bit of mistrust, but it is normal when the coach and four pillars change. The Champions League has given us so much, allowing us to grow in the league and reach this beautiful goal.
“The biggest difficulty is getting into the mind of a group that had an extraordinary season and trying to instill something different, then they have a great work ethic, they are intelligent guys and attached to the shirt.
“After a few too many draws, we found victories that gave us conviction. We have arrived at having this quality of play, today Fabbian and Dallinga scored. We are growing, this milestone is proof of that.
“Celebrate? This is how you make Milan angry, we hope to play a great match arriving in great condition. Our self-esteem is already at a thousand, we know we are facing a team of champions but we will try to exploit our weapons. We can’t wait to get to Rome, we hope to have those 30,000 at the Olimpico.”
