The Coppa Italia Last 64 delivered a dramatic opening salvo to the 2026-2027 campaign, with a blend of hard-fought draws, commanding victories, and storylines that set the tone for an unpredictable tournament ahead. Fans were treated to a feast of football as traditional contenders and ambitious outsiders staked their claim for cup glory on a day rife with intensity and ambition.
Match Results
| Home Team | Score | Away Team |
|---|---|---|
 AC Pisa 1909 | 1 - 1 |  Empoli |
 US Sassuolo Calcio | 3 - 0 |  AC Cesena |
 US Cremonese | 2 - 0 |  UC Sampdoria |
 Palermo | 2 - 0 |  US Lecce |
The most tightly contested affair came between AC Pisa 1909 and Empoli FC, who battled to a tense 1-1 draw. With both sides showing resilience and flashes of quality, neither could find a decisive breakthrough, leaving their fates hanging in the balance as the tournament bracket unfolds. The result epitomizes the competitive edge of this year’s Coppa Italia, where every inch is fiercely contested and progression is never guaranteed.
Elsewhere, several teams made emphatic statements of intent. US Sassuolo Calcio were particularly impressive, dispatching AC Cesena with a commanding 3-0 win. The team’s cohesive attacking display and defensive solidity signaled their ambitions for a deep run in the competition, as they cruised into the next round without conceding. US Cremonese also impressed with a controlled 2-0 victory over UC Sampdoria, capitalizing on their home advantage to book their place in the next round and build early momentum for the campaign.
A special mention must go to Palermo FC, who delighted their home crowd with a 2-0 win over US Lecce. Coming at a time when the city has been in the news for reasons beyond football, the result provided a welcome lift for local supporters. Palermo FC’s disciplined performance and clinical finishing not only secured progression but also underscored their credentials as potential dark horses in this year’s tournament.
As the dust settles on the first round of action, several trends have emerged: established sides are asserting their authority, while underdogs are proving they will not go quietly. The balanced draw in Pisa and Empoli’s clash hints at more drama to come, while the assertive performances from the likes of US Sassuolo Calcio, US Cremonese, and Palermo FC promise further intrigue as the Coppa Italia story unfolds.
With the opening round setting the bar high for excitement and unpredictability, all eyes now turn to the next chapter, where the surviving teams will look to build on hard-fought victories and dramatic draws as the pursuit for silverware heats up.