By Francis Onyach - Reporter
20 December 2025 - Bologna will face Napoli in the Italian Super Cup final after overcoming Inter Milan in a dramatic penalty shootout following a 1–1 draw in the semi-final in Riyadh.
The Rossoblù held their nerve from the spot to win 3–2 on penalties and book a place in Monday’s showpiece match.
The contest started explosively, with Inter Milan taking the lead just two minutes into the game.
Alessandro Bastoni played a precise cross into the box, where Marcus Thuram caught the defense off guard and volleyed home to give the Nerazzurri an early advantage. Despite Inter’s fast start, Bologna gradually worked their way into the game, using patient build-up play to create openings.
Bologna’s perseverance paid off in the 35th minute. After a VAR review ruled that Inter defender Yann Bisseck had handled in the area, Bologna were awarded a penalty. Riccardo Orsolini stepped up calmly and converted from the spot, restoring parity and setting the stage for a tense second half.
Despite both teams having opportunities after the break, neither could find a match-winner in the remaining 45 minutes, and with the Italian Super Cup’s current format, where no extra time is played if the teams go level in regular time, the game went straight to a penalty shootout.
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In the shootout, both teams missed chances, but Bologna ultimately held their nerve. Inter saw key attempts from Alessandro Bastoni, Nicolò Barella, and Ange-Yoan Bonny go astray, while Bologna’s takers were more composed. Ciro Immobile buried the decisive penalty to secure a memorable victory for the Coppa Italia holders.
The result sets up a compelling Italian Super Cup final against Napoli, who booked their own spot with a 2–0 win over AC Milan in the other semi-final.
Bologna will head into the final filled with confidence and momentum after knocking out a heavyweight opponent.
