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“You didn’t want the jersey… and here’s the banner. Edo, we’re waiting for you.” That’s how the night at the Franchi began, and it couldn’t have been otherwise. The match itself quickly took a backseat, as it was impossible to forget the events that unfolded just three days earlier on the same pitch. Bove’s collapse, Cataldi’s quick intervention, the rush to Careggi Hospital—all too familiar for a team that has already experienced tragedy with Astori and a scare with Joe Barone earlier this year. Thankfully, this time, Bove’s ordeal remained a scare and did not turn into something worse. The Coppa Italia match was played at the insistence of the young midfielder, who from his hospital bed urged his teammates to take to the field and fight for him.
The 90 minutes were tense and felt endless, with everyone striving to bring some joy to Edoardo. However, it was Empoli who celebrated after a stellar performance under coach D’Aversa, who sent another message of support to Bove after the match. Empoli’s youthful squad, featuring six academy graduates, showed no fear against a strong Fiorentina side, who were riding high before their interrupted and postponed match against Inter.
The first blow came from Ekong, who received the ball and fired a precise shot past Terracciano. The game was full of chances, many wasted by Fiorentina, including Kean’s effort that hit the crossbar from close range. Kean later equalized, pointing to the number 4 on his shirt and placing his hand over his heart in a tribute to Bove.
Sottil’s 2-1 goal gave Fiorentina the momentum, but they couldn’t hold onto it as Esposito leveled the score to send the match to penalties. The shootout favored Empoli, with critical misses from Ranieri and Kean. Esposito converted the decisive penalty, with goalkeeper Seghetti also shining as a key figure of the night.
Empoli emerged victorious in this heartfelt Tuscan derby, played with great respect and in a uniquely emotional atmosphere. They will face the winner of Juventus vs. Cagliari in the next round.
