Coppa Italia action returned with a bang as the Last 32 delivered both drama and decisive results on September 15th. Fans were treated to a blend of tactical battles and standout individual performances, with two teams securing their spots in the next round and keeping their cup dreams alive in the 2026-2027 season.
Match Results
| Home Team | Score | Away Team |
|---|---|---|
 Genoa CFC | 1 - 0 |  FC Südtirol |
 ACF Fiorentina | 3 - 0 |  AC Pisa 1909 |
At the Stadio Artemio Franchi, ACF Fiorentina impressed with a commanding 3-0 win over regional rivals AC Pisa 1909. Manager Paolo Vanoli, fresh off a recent appointment, made bold tactical decisions by rotating seven players and shifting to a 4-3-3 formation. Despite some early jitters, the Viola found their rhythm, overwhelming AC Pisa 1909 with sustained pressure and clinical finishing. A highlight of the evening was the performance of Leeds United loanee Willy Gnonto, who netted ACF Fiorentina’s second goal in the 71st minute. His energy and attacking flair have already made an impact in Florence, underlining the club’s smart summer transfer business. The result not only sends ACF Fiorentina through to a heavyweight Round of 16 clash with Napoli but also provides a timely boost as Vanoli looks to stabilize his squad and build momentum in both league and cup competitions.
Meanwhile, Genoa CFC had to dig deep to edge past a determined FC Südtirol side with a slender 1-0 victory. The match was a closely fought affair, characterized by disciplined defending and few clear-cut chances. Ultimately, it was Genoa CFC’s ability to seize their opportunity that proved decisive, allowing them to advance and keep their cup ambitions intact. For FC Südtirol, the narrow defeat brings an end to their Coppa Italia journey, but their spirited display against top-tier opposition will serve as a valuable learning experience and a positive sign for their ongoing league campaign.
The day’s action highlighted some intriguing early trends in this season’s Coppa Italia. Tactical flexibility was on full display, as managers rotated squads and experimented with formations—moves that paid dividends for those who got them right. Additionally, new signings and loanees like Gnonto are already making their mark, suggesting that fresh faces could play pivotal roles throughout this year’s tournament.
With the Last 32 now underway, both ACF Fiorentina and Genoa CFC have set themselves up for deeper runs, while fans can look forward to more high-stakes drama as the competition intensifies. The stage is set for more memorable moments as the Coppa Italia continues to unfold.