AC Milan is set to compete against Bologna in the 2024-25 Coppa Italia final. Milan secured their spot by defeating Inter in an exciting semifinal, while Bologna advanced after eliminating Empoli. The final is scheduled for May 14 at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.
This marks Bologna`s third appearance in the Coppa Italia final, having previously won in 1970 and 1974. It`s their first final in over 50 years, though their current manager, Vincenzo Italiano, reached the final in 2023 with Fiorentina, losing to Inter. AC Milan has a richer history in the competition, with five titles, their last win coming in 2003. However, they were runners-up in both the 2016 and 2018 finals, losing to Juventus on both occasions.
Winning the Coppa Italia could represent AC Milan`s second trophy of the season, following their Supercoppa Italiana victory over Inter in January. This Supercoppa win came shortly after Portuguese manager Sergio Conceicao took over as manager from Paulo Fonseca. For both clubs, but especially AC Milan, winning this trophy offers a direct route to qualification for the 2025-26 Europa League season.
On their path to the final, AC Milan overcame Sassuolo and AS Roma before their semifinal clash with Inter. Bologna`s journey included wins against Monza and Atalanta, culminating in their semifinal victory over Empoli. Here`s essential information about the final:
How to Watch Coppa Italia Final
- Date & Time: Wednesday, May 23 | 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Stadio Olimpico, Rome, Italy
- Live Stream: Paramount+
- Odds: AC Milan +150; Draw +225; Bologna +185
What AC Milan Are Saying
Speaking before the final, AC Milan manager Sergio Conceicao reflected on the season and the upcoming match: `A season is defined by moments. Winning this trophy would bring great pleasure and joy to our fans after a challenging year. We are fully focused on this trophy; while we might appear intense, it comes from the immense pleasure of reaching a final against a strong opponent like Bologna. There`s no fear, just the usual adrenaline. The team is calm and ready for this important match. Leao is available, but I won`t disclose the starting striker between Jovic and Gimenez.`
Predicted Lineups
AC Milan XI: Mike Maignan; Fikayo Tomori, Matteo Gabbia, Strahinja Pavlovic; Alex Jimenez, Youssouf Fofana, Tijani Reijnders, Theo Hernandez; Christian Pulisic, Luka Jovic, Rafael Leao.
Bologna XI: Lukasz Skorupski; Lorenzo De Silvestri, Sam Beukema, John Lucumi, Juan Miranda; Remo Freuler, Lewis Ferguson, Jens Odgaard; Riccardo Orsolini, Santiago Castro, Nicolo Cambiaghi.
Player to Watch
Christian Pulisic, AC Milan — The American forward, who joined Milan from Chelsea in summer 2023, could potentially add a second trophy with the club. Pulisic has been a standout performer this season, contributing 17 goals and 12 assists. Winning the Coppa Italia could be crucial for him to ensure European football next season, especially looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup.
Storyline to Watch
Conceicao`s Future — Even if AC Milan secures a second trophy this season, doubts remain about Sergio Conceicao`s long-term position as manager, particularly given the team`s overall performance. Despite winning the Supercoppa Italiana shortly after his appointment in December, speculation persists about a potential managerial change in the summer.
Prediction
AC Milan enters the final in strong form, having achieved four consecutive wins recently – a first for them this season. Following their Supercoppa Italiana win against Inter in January, a Coppa Italia victory would give Milan two trophies in a single season, a feat not accomplished since 2007-08 (UEFA Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup). Predicted Score: AC Milan 2, Bologna 1.
