- Date: Wednesday, 14 May 2025
- Venue: Stadio Olimpico, Rome
- Fixture: AC Milan vs Bologna (Coppa Italia Final)
Match Preview
The 2024/25 Coppa Italia final brings together AC Milan and Bologna at the iconic Stadio Olimpico in Rome on Wednesday, 14 May. This is a historic occasion for Bologna, who reach their first Coppa Italia final in 51 years, while Milan return to the showpiece hoping to cap their season with silverware after a rollercoaster Serie A campaign.
Both teams come into the final fresh from a direct encounter just days earlier in Serie A, where Milan staged a dramatic 3-1 comeback win at San Siro. Riccardo Orsolini gave Bologna the lead shortly after halftime, but Milan responded with goals from Santiago Gimenez (two) and Christian Pulisic to claim victory. That result lifted Milan to eighth in the league (60 points), just behind Bologna in seventh (62 points), underlining how closely matched these sides are this season. For Bologna, it was a damaging result in their quest to qualify for the Champions League for the second successive season.
Milan’s route to the final included a dominant 3-0 win over city rivals Inter in the semi-final second leg, overturning the tie in style. Bologna, meanwhile, swept past Empoli 5-1 on aggregate in their semi, showing both defensive solidity and attacking flair. In recent weeks, Milan have found some form, winning three of their last four matches, including away victories at Genoa and Venezia. Bologna’s own run has been tough at a critical juncture of the season, with wins over Empoli and Inter, offset by dropped points against Udinese and Juventus, followed by defeat to Milan themselves in their last outing.
Injuries and suspensions could play a significant role in the final. Milan are without key players: Rafael Leao is back from suspension, but Youssouf Fofana, Warren Bondo, and Riccardo Sottil are carrying injuries and are unlikely to feature. Bologna have their own concerns, missing Dan Ndoye, Emil Holm, Estanis Pedrola, and Jens Odgaard, which has forced coach Vincenzo Italiano to rotate his squad in recent matches.
Tactically, Milan will look to exploit their attacking depth, relying on the creativity and finishing of Christian Pulisic and Leao, the physical presence of Santiago Gimenez, and the experience of Alvaro Morata and Luka Jovic. Bologna’s threat comes from the likes of Orsolini, Thijs Dallinga, and the industrious midfield led by Remo Freuler and Nikola Moro. Both teams have shown resilience, with Milan especially adept at coming from behind-no team in Europe’s top leagues has recovered more points from losing positions this season.
Key Players
- AC Milan:
- Christian Pulisic: The American winger has been revitalized at Milan, contributing goals and assists at crucial moments, including a goal and an assist in the recent league win over Bologna.
- Santiago Gimenez: The Mexican striker’s brace in the last meeting shows his sharp form and ability to deliver on big occasions.
- Theo Hernandez: A dynamic presence at left-back, offering both defensive solidity and attacking thrust.
- Fikayo Tomori: A key figure in Milan’s defense, though he was forced off early in the last match and his fitness will be monitored.
- Bologna:
- Riccardo Orsolini: Scored the opener in the last clash and remains Bologna’s most dangerous attacking outlet.
- Thijs Dallinga: The Dutch forward has been a consistent threat, both as a scorer and creator.
- Remo Freuler: The experienced Swiss midfielder anchors Bologna’s play and sets the tempo in midfield.
- Łukasz Skorupski: The veteran goalkeeper will need to be at his best to keep Milan’s attack at bay.
Prediction
With both teams missing key players and coming off an emotionally charged league encounter, this final promises to be a tight, tactical battle. Milan’s greater experience in finals and their knack for late comebacks give them a slight edge, but Bologna’s hunger and recent form mean they cannot be underestimated. Expect a match of fine margins, with Milan’s attacking depth just tipping the balance.
Prediction: AC Milan 2-1 Bologna (after 90 minutes)
Betting Markets & Odds
| Market | Fractional Odds | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|
| AC Milan to win | 13/10 | Bet Now |
| Bologna to win | 2/1 | Bet Now |
| Draw (90 mins) | 12/5 | Bet Now |
| Both Teams to Score – Yes | 8/11 | Bet Now |
| Under 2.5 Goals | 10/11 | Bet Now |
| Christian Pulisic Anytime | 3/1 | Bet Now |
| Santiago Gimenez First Goal | 9/2 | Bet Now |
| Correct Score 2-1 Milan | 8/1 | Bet Now |
Odds are indicative and subject to change. Please check the linked site for latest prices.
Expect a fiercely contested final in Rome, with both sets of fans dreaming of glory. Will Milan’s experience shine through, or can Bologna crown their fairy-tale run with a famous triumph? All will be decided under the lights at the Stadio Olimpico on Wednesday night.
