Empoli, struggling in Serie A, produced a major upset by defeating defending champions Juventus 4-2 on penalties in the Coppa Italia quarter-finals on Wednesday, reaching the competition’s semi-finals for the first time in their history. The match finished 1-1 after regular time, with Dusan Vlahovic’s missed penalty proving costly for the record 15-time winners.
Youssef Maleh gave Empoli a shock lead in the 24th minute, unleashing a powerful strike from outside the box that beat Juventus goalkeeper Mattia Perin. Khephren Thuram equalized for Juventus after the hour mark with a stunning individual effort, dribbling past the Empoli defense before finishing from a tight angle.
Empoli, playing in their first Coppa Italia quarter-final since 2006-07, will face Bologna in a two-legged semi-final in April. Inter Milan and AC Milan will contest the other semi-final.
Juventus had an early opportunity to take the lead, but Nicolas Gonzalez failed to convert a headed pass from Kolo Muani. The home side struggled to break down a resolute Empoli defense in the first half, failing to register a single shot on target despite dominating possession (70%).
Empoli could have doubled their lead before halftime. Perin saved Ismael Konate’s low shot, and the 18-year-old forward then hit the post in stoppage time.
Vlahovic had Juventus’ first shot on target in the 52nd minute, forcing a save from Empoli goalkeeper Devis Vasquez with a free-kick. Empoli’s Junior Sambia then missed a golden chance to make it 2-0, shooting straight at Perin after a solo run.
After Thuram’s equalizer, both sides pushed for a winner. Vlahovic saw further chances thwarted, while Empoli’s Christian Kouame shot just wide, and Sambia blasted over in stoppage time.
Vlahovic missed Juventus’ first attempt in the penalty shootout, skying his effort over the bar. Vasquez then saved Kenan Yildiz’s penalty, and Empoli defender Luca Marianucci converted the winning spot-kick.
Empoli’s victory is a remarkable achievement, given their recent struggles in Serie A. They are winless in 11 consecutive league games, had been thrashed 5-0 by Atalanta last weekend, and currently sit in the relegation zone. They had previously eliminated Fiorentina on penalties in the last 16 and beat Torino 2-1 in the second round. The result represents a significant blow to Juventus’ hopes of retaining the Coppa Italia.
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