Empoli made history by defeating Juventus 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, advancing to their first-ever Italian Cup semi-final. Youssef Maleh’s goal gave Empoli the lead, but Khephren Thuram equalized in the 66th minute. Juventus faltered in the shootout, with Vlahovic and Yildiz missing penalties, allowing Luca Marianucci to seal Empoli’s victory.
In the Italian Cup quarterfinals, Empoli made history by reaching the semifinals for the first time, defeating Juventus 4-2 on penalties after a dramatic 1-1 draw. Luca Marianucci scored the decisive penalty, setting up a semifinal clash with Bologna in April.
Empoli, currently battling relegation in Serie A, displayed remarkable composure in the shootout, converting all four of their penalties. Juventus initially fell behind to a powerful first-half strike from Youssef Maleh, drawing boos from their home supporters at halftime. However, Khephren Thuram equalized in the 66th minute with a brilliant back-heeled flick before smashing the ball into the net.
Despite Juventus’ strong second half, they faltered in the penalty shootout. Dusan Vlahovic sent his spot-kick over the bar, while Kenan Yildiz’s attempt was saved by Empoli goalkeeper Devis Vasquez. This allowed Marianucci to secure a famous victory for Empoli, sending them to the last four.
In the other semifinal, a high-stakes Milan derby is set between Inter and AC Milan, after Inter defeated Lazio 2-0 on Tuesday. Empoli’s victory marks a major upset, knocking out the 14-time Italian Cup champions Juventus and continuing their dream run in the tournament.
