Juventus Advances to Italian Cup Final with Thrilling Victory Over Lazio

Juventus secured a berth in the Italian Cup final after defeating Lazio 3-2 on aggregate in their semifinal tie. Despite Lazio's 2-1 victory in the second leg, Juventus's 2-0 triumph in the first leg proved decisive. Arkadiusz Milik's late goal, set up by Timothy Weah, sealed the deal for Juventus, who now await either Atalanta or Fiorentina in the final on May 15.

Juventus Advance to Italian Cup Final with Dramatic Victory Over Lazio

ROME, Italy (AP) - Juventus secured a berth in the Italian Cup final on Tuesday evening, overcoming a spirited challenge from Lazio in a gripping semi-final clash. Arkadiusz Milik's late strike, assisted by United States international Timothy Weah, proved decisive as the Bianconeri triumphed 3-2 on aggregate.

Despite Lazio emerging victorious in the second leg by a 2-1 scoreline, Juventus' dominant performance in the first leg (a 2-0 win) ultimately prevailed. Weah played a pivotal role in the decisive goal, delivering a perfectly timed cross in the 83rd minute that Milik deftly converted.

Lazio's Taty Castellanos had been a constant threat throughout the contest, netting goals in both halves. His aerial prowess was on display in the 12th minute when he soared above Alex Sandro to head in a corner. After the interval, Castellanos displayed his strength in a counterattack, shrugging off Gleison Bremer's challenge before putting the ball beyond Mattia Perin.

Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie, also a United States representative, was forced to leave the field with an apparent ankle injury following Castellanos' second goal. However, he valiantly returned to action shortly after and remained on the pitch until being replaced in the 81st minute.

With this victory, Juventus has set up a mouthwatering final clash on May 15 in Rome, where they will face either Atalanta or Fiorentina. Fiorentina holds a narrow 1-0 advantage heading into Wednesday's second-leg encounter.

Juventus' triumph marks a significant milestone in their pursuit of silverware. The club has lifted the Italian Cup a record 14 times, with their last triumph coming in 2021. By reaching the final, Juventus has also secured qualification for the prestigious four-team Italian Super Cup next season.

Castellanos, who has a reputation for delivering in crucial games, once again proved his worth with a scintillating performance. Last April, while playing for Girona, he etched his name into history with a remarkable four-goal haul against Real Madrid.