In a historic night at the Stadio Olimpico, Bologna FC clinched their first Coppa Italia title in 51 years, defeating AC Milan 1-0 in a final that saw the Rossoneri's attacking stars—including Christian Pulisic—fail to break down a disciplined and defiant Bologna side.

The only goal of the match came in the 53rd minute when Dan Ndoye capitalized on a defensive error from Theo Hernández, slotting the ball past Mike Maignan to spark wild celebrations among Bologna supporters.

 
Pulisic and USMNT Stars Kept Quiet in Final

For Christian Pulisic, the night was a frustrating one. The USMNT forward struggled to find space and rhythm against a tactically sharp Bologna side. Substituted late in the second half, Pulisic was unable to influence the game as he has so often this season.

His muted performance was emblematic of an AC Milan attack that lacked cutting edge, with Rafael Leão and Olivier Giroud also failing to convert key chances.

 
Ferguson and Italiano Deliver Historic Victory

Lewis Ferguson, Bologna’s captain, delivered an inspiring performance despite suffering a facial injury during the match. His leadership and resilience symbolized the team’s spirit under head coach Vincenzo Italiano, whose tactical masterclass neutralized Milan’s creativity and pressed Sergio Conceição’s side into submission.

 
Sergio Conceição Under Pressure as Milan Go Trophyless

The result caps a bitter season for AC Milan, who now risk missing out on European qualification depending on final Serie A standings. For manager Sergio Conceição, pressure is mounting after failing to secure silverware in his debut campaign.

“We expected more tonight. We lacked intensity in the key moments,” Conceição admitted post-match.
 
Bologna’s Return to European Football

With the victory, Bologna secures a spot in the 2025–26 UEFA Europa League, their first continental appearance in decades. It’s a crowning achievement for a club that has rebuilt steadily and now boasts one of Italy’s most promising squads.

 
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