Bologna’s Coppa Italia Win Reshapes European Race: Lazio’s European Ambitions Hang In The Balance

Bologna clinched a historic 1-0 victory over AC Milan in the Coppa Italia final, a result that not only earns them silverware but also plays a pivotal role in how Serie A clubs will be allocated spots in next season’s European competitions.

Italy is set to send seven teams to UEFA tournaments in the 2025/26 season, but the Coppa Italia outcome directly influences the distribution between the UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League.

With Bologna lifting the cup, here’s how the scenarios unfold:

Scenario 1: Bologna Finish Outside the Top Six

If Bologna do not secure a top-six finish in Serie A:

• The top four teams will qualify for the Champions League
• 5th place and Bologna (as Coppa Italia winners) will qualify for the Europa League
• 6th place drops into the UEFA Conference League
• 7th place misses out on Europe

Scenario 2: Bologna Finish in the Top Six

If Bologna manage to break into the top six:

• The top four head to the Champions League
• 5th and 6th place take the Europa League spots
• 7th place will go to the UEFA Conference League

Lazio have endured a turbulent season, marked by managerial changes and inconsistent home form. Yet with a few crucial performances, Lazio could still salvage European qualification. Their destiny, however, is no longer entirely in their own hands—it now hinges on both their own results and Bologna’s final push.

Currently sitting 7th in the Serie A table with 62 points, Bologna’s final two matches will be crucial. Should they remain in seventh, they’ll qualify for the Europa League thanks to their cup win, pushing the sixth-place team down to the Conference League.