Cittadella defeat Empoli, advance in the Coppa Italia.

Cittadella came from behind at the Stadio Carlo Castellani to defeat Serie A side Empoli in the Round of 64 of the Coppa Italia.

Empoli wasted no time getting on the scoreboard and punishing Cittadella early. Goalkeeper Elhan Kastrati couldn’t handle a cross which fell easily for the veteran striker to put into the net.

Cittadella never backed down in the first half, creating a total of 9 shots in the opening 45 minutes. The Granata had their best chance in the 34th minute, when Lorenzo Carissoni intercepted a loose pass and struck a shot straight at Elia Caprile. The rebound fell to Filippo Pittarello, who couldn’t control the ball in front of goal.

Edoardo Gorini’s side had their fair share of opportunities, and finally the goal came for them in the 61st minute. Francesco Amatucci’s cross narrowly missed the head of Andrea Magrassi, but it was enough to get the ball past Caprile for the equalizer.

Cittadella took the lead with ten minutes remaining, as Magrassi scored his goal officially this time. Substitute Tommy Maistrello set up the striker perfectly to head the ball into the corner, giving the Granata a precious lead.

Gorini’s team could’ve walked away with three goals from the match, as the Granata were awarded a penalty on the stroke of stoppage time. However, Claudio Cassano’s effort was saved by Caprile, forcing Cittadella to see out the game until the final whistle.

Cittadella will now play in the Round of 32 of the Coppa Italia against the winner of Cremonese and Crotone. Their home opener in Serie B is scheduled for next Sunday at 20:30 against Reggiana.

Top Photo: AS Cittadella