Lega Pro team Pavia beat Bologna on a historic Friday evening at the temporary venue of Vicenza’s Stadio Romeo Menti.
Stefano Del Sante’s goal in the 35th minute proved decisive enough for Giorgio Roselli’s men as they were able to see off Bologna and advance to the Round of 16.
Both teams looked to press their rivals hard from the off, with Pavia creating an early chance for Del Sante. The forward made good progress down the left flank but saw his shot fly over the bar in the 3rd minute.
In an entertaining first half of football, ex-Fiorentina player Federico Carraro came agonisingly close in the 6th minute but was unable to beat Antonio Mirante in the Bologna goal.
Bologna had their fair share of action as Matteo Brighi dribbled into the box but had his shot block in the 18th minute.
As the game carried on, both teams became more sloppy in possession with more frequent fouling, which ultimately led to a goal for Pavia in the 35th minute from Del Sante.
A deflected set piece saw Mirante rush for the ball but he was unable to reach it before the Pavia striker who fired into the open goal.
Tensions grew higher as Bologna became more frustrated and in the 45th minute Alex Ferrari saw red for stamping on Alex Pederzoli, shortly after a brilliant counterattack lead to a shot which was saved by Mirante.
Half-time saw Bologna bring Amadou Diawara on for Luca Rizzo and Ibrahima Mbaye came on for Roberto Acquafresca, and the action quickly picked up again with a shot over the bar from Daniele Cacia in the 48th minute.
Bologna continued to apply pressure, but it was not enough as they had the majority of possession but failed to create clearcut chances.
Pavia now advance to the Round of 16 where they will face the winner of Hellas Verona v Foggia.
