Bologna U20 produced a strong second-half display to beat Empoli Youth 3-1 in the Italian Campionato Primavera 1 on 24 October 2026, with Matteo Rinaldi scoring twice in a deserved home victory. The result gives Bologna’s Primavera side an important three points as they look to climb the youth league table and build consistency in a highly competitive age-group division.

Match overview

Bologna started with purpose, controlling possession and forcing Empoli deep into their own half. The breakthrough arrived after 21 minutes when Rinaldi found space at the near post and turned in a low cross. Empoli responded with a spell of pressure before the break and equalised on 39 minutes through Andrea Conti, whose shot from the edge of the box took a slight deflection on its way past the goalkeeper.

The second half was a different story. Bologna raised their tempo, pressed higher and regained the lead on 58 minutes when Luca Ferri drove forward from midfield and finished neatly into the bottom corner. Rinaldi sealed the win on 76 minutes, converting a penalty after a foul inside the area. Empoli pushed late, but Bologna managed the game well and saw out the result with maturity.

Key moments

• 21’ – Bologna U20 1-0: Rinaldi opened the scoring with a composed near-post finish.
• 39’ – Bologna U20 1-1: Conti levelled for Empoli Youth with a deflected strike.
• 58’ – Bologna U20 2-1: Ferri restored Bologna’s lead after a powerful run.
• 76’ – Bologna U20 3-1: Rinaldi converted from the penalty spot.

Tactical story

Bologna’s 4-2-3-1 shape gave them control in central areas, with the full-backs pushing high to create overloads. Empoli tried to sit compact and counter through the wide channels, and their equaliser came during their best spell of the first half. After the interval, Bologna’s increased pressing and quicker ball circulation made it difficult for Empoli to escape their own half.

Standout performers

Rinaldi was the clear attacking standout with two goals and constant movement in the box. Ferri’s drive and composure in midfield gave Bologna a platform to dominate the second half. Empoli’s Conti was their brightest performer, showing good technique and willingness to shoot from distance, while their centre-backs worked hard under sustained pressure.

Season impact

This 3-1 win adds valuable momentum to Bologna U20’s Campionato Primavera 1 campaign and underlines the squad’s attacking depth. Empoli Youth will be disappointed to leave without a point after a competitive first half, but the match offered useful lessons in managing momentum and defending the penalty area against a side with strong movement in the final third.