‘We deserve this’ – Bologna boss Italiano jubilant after Coppa Italia triumph

Bologna’s manager, Vincenzo Italiano, expressed his delight and pride in his team’s “incredible” Coppa Italia victory, hailing his players as “extraordinary” after they defeated Milan 1-0 to claim their first major trophy in 51 years.

Forward Dan Ndoye scored the decisive goal eight minutes into the second half, securing Bologna’s third Coppa Italia title in the club’s history and their first since 1974.

While Milan had hoped for a domestic double after winning the Supercoppa Italiana earlier in the season, it was Italiano who finally tasted success after previous final defeats. The triumph marked a significant moment for the Bologna boss, who struggled to contain his joy at the final whistle.

Italiano reflected on his past disappointments, stating, “Those were three very big disappointments. I didn’t think I could bounce back so quickly and win, but I did. This victory is dedicated to my extraordinary players.”

The 47-year-old also dedicated the win to the late Joe Barone, a former director at Fiorentina, who passed away in 2024. Italiano shared, “His son’s message this morning meant a lot to me. We were close to winning a trophy together, and I hold those memories dear.”