AC Milan vs Bologna: Three Key Takeaways From Rossoblu’s Historic Coppa Italia Final Win

Bologna Stun AC Milan To Lift First Coppa Italia in 51 Years As Ndoye Shines and Milan Falter in Rome.

AC Milan vs Bologna: Rossoblu ended a 51-year trophy drought with a stunning 2-0 win over AC Milan in the 2025 Coppa Italia final at the Stadio Olimpico. A solo goal from Dan Ndoye delivered the Rossoblu’s first cup triumph since 1974. And it left Milan ruing a night of missed chances and an unfortunate defensive lapse.

Bologna’s victory not only ended their more than a half-century of waiting but it also highlighted their incredible development under the Vincenzo Italiano. For Milan, this defeat will sting as this could mean that they lose the chance to qualify for next season’s Europa League.

Post-match reaction from Christian Pulisic.#MilanBologna #CoppaItaliaFrecciarossa #SempreMilan pic.twitter.com/QXGcTvGYmE
— AC Milan (@acmilan) May 14, 2025

Here are three major takeaways from the memorable Coppa Italia final clash in Rome:

1. Dan Ndoye Delivers on the Big Stage

Swiss winger Dan Ndoye was Bologna’s standout performer. The first half ended goalless but Bologna found the breakthrough in the 53rd minute. Riccardo Orsolini was initially dispossessed in the box but the loose ball fell directly to Dan Ndoye. The Swiss winger didn’t make a mistake as he showed great balance, stay on his feet, and clinically drilled a low shot past the Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan.

It was Ndoye’s maiden goal of the Coppa campaign. And boy, what a time it was for him to score his first. The essential goal made him only the second Bologna player to score in a Coppa Italia final, second to Giuseppe Savoldi. His goal came back in 1974 in Bologna’s last Coppa win. Ndoye’s directness troubled Milan’s right side throughout the match.

Also Read: Coppa Italia 2025 Prize Money: How Much Have Bologna Earned Along With the Trophy?

2. AC Milan’s Midfield Collapses Under Pressure

Despite boasting experienced names like Christian Pulisic and Tijjani Reijnders, Milan’s midfield was unable to dictate the tempo. Bologna’s compact setup nullified their creativity. Riccardo Orsolini and Dan Ndoye controlled the front lines with major help from th engine room.

Milan’s transitions were often too slow, allowing Bologna to reset defensively. Even Christian Pulisic, who was expected to make a major impact, was largely ineffective due to the lack of service and support. Thus, leading to AC Milan’s extremely quiet night.

Also Read: AC Milan vs Bologna: Rossoblu End 51-Year Wait With Historic Coppa Italia Win

3. Vincenzo Italiano’s Tactical Masterclass

Bologna coach Vincenzo Italiano deserves immense credit for outcoaching Sergio Conceicao. His 4-3-3 setup exploited Milan’s defensive vulnerabilities while keeping their own string against the Italian giants. They knew making the right move will be necessary as it won’t come too many times against a team like Milan. Ndoye’s goal early into the second half hand them all the momentum they needed.

Italiano’s substitutions also worked singers. When he could’ve gone full-defensive mode bringing in defenders after scoring the one goal, he didn’t do that. He brought in similar role players and kept pushing. They did all this while preventing Milan as they brought on more strikers in the ending minutes to get the match in their favour.

AC Milan

AC Milan vs Bologna

Bologna

Coppa Italia

Coppa Italia Final

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.