XtraTime Web Desk: A rare penalty miss from world’s greatest footballer Cristiano Roanldo did not stop Juventus from entering the final of Coppa Italia as they were held to a goalless draw by AC Milan on Friday night. Top flight football returned to Italy with the Coppa Italia semi final after a forced break for almost three months due to coronavirus pandemic.
Juventus qualified for Wednesday’s final on a better goal average, courtesy their away goal in the 1-1 draw in the first semi final on February 13. The second semi final of the Coppa Italia will be played between Napoli and Inter Milan on Saturday.
There was early drama during the semi final clash between Juve and AC Milan at the Allianz stadium which was played behind closed doors. The home side was awarded a penalty in the 16th minute after the VAR officials spotted the ball hitting Andrea Conti’s elbow. Much to the disappointment of home fans Ronaldo missed the spot kick as his shot rebounded off the foot of the post. Rossoneri cleared the ball from rebound. Within seconds AC Milan striker Ante Rebic was flashed a direct red card for his karate style kick at Danilo, forcing the visitors to play the remainder of the match with 10 men.
Both sides failed to break the deadlock in the first half with Juventus dominating the proceedings. The second half also saw not many opportunities being created. Milan badly felt the absence of veteran striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic who is nursing a calf injury.