AH - Italian Football - Butterflies in Milan
- Thread starter Piave92
- Start date
It wasn't that foul to decide Scudetto but the fact that Ambrosiana didn't lose the two games against Bari, that in this timeline (Liberty, its closest equivalent) is in Serie B, facing instead a Torino well disposed to lose to avoid Juve to win their 20th Scudetto.
Poi io sono milanista e sono totalmente agnostico sul fatto, diciamo che per ragioni narrative riusciva bene come arco di redenzione dopo 3 anni di B dell'Ambrosiana,
To fellow non italian readers , sorry for the gratuituous italian
Poi io sono milanista e sono totalmente agnostico sul fatto, diciamo che per ragioni narrative riusciva bene come arco di redenzione dopo 3 anni di B dell'Ambrosiana,
To fellow non italian readers , sorry for the gratuituous italian
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I am guessing that maybe in this Timeline, the English League is not property of Sky, so it remains poorer than the championships of Italy, Spain and Germany. Shame that The Yugoslavia teams aren't as strong now, but hopefully that changes soon. I am also expecting clubs of Former Soviet Union to be very strong. Especially Shevchenko with Kiev
98 - International Cups -
European Super Cup Final - Lansdowne Road, Dublin, Ireland - Juventus-Barcelona (0-2), attendance: 19,859 - referee: David Elleray (England)
Juventus faced Barcelona in the UEFA Super Cup final, after the Catalans (UEFA Cup holders) defeated the modest Berliner TSV (Cup Winners' Cup champions) in the semifinal. The match was open, but Barcelona quickly took control with Luis Enrique scoring in the 8th minute. Despite Juventus' efforts to equalize, they struggled to make a significant impact. Barcelona doubled their lead after Fortunato fouled Rivaldo, who then scored the decisive penalty. Barcelona ultimately defeated Juventus, who missed their first major objective of the season.
Intercontinental Cup - National Stadium, Tokyo, Japan - Juventus - Cruzeiro (0-2), attendance: 51.514 - referee: José María García-Aranda (Spain)
Cruzeiro faced another Juventus opponent in the Intercontinental Cup, 21 years after their first appearance. Pre-match controversies arose over Cruzeiro's use of three loaned players (Donizete, Bebeto, and Gonçalves), but Juventus' protest was unsuccessful, and the players started the match.
Cruzeiro began aggressively, with Donizete and Palacios troubling Juventus' goalkeeper, Peruzzi. In the 34th minute, Cleisson unexpectedly took a free kick from the left, which Bebeto missed, but Donizete scored from behind him. Early in the second half, Juventus tried to respond, but after Birindelli's red card, they faltered. Cruzeiro repeatedly came close to doubling their lead, which they eventually did six minutes before the end with Bebeto finishing a cross from Elivelton, delivering the Intercontinenal Cup to Belo Horizonte.
UEFA Champions League - Juventus and Parma
Preliminary qualification round
Parma dispatched Widzew Łódź with a 7-1 aggregated score, winning 1-3 in Łódź (Chiesa's hat trick) and 4-0 at home (Pedros, Sensini, Adailton), qualifying to the group stage.
Group stage
In the Group A, Parma qualified second behind Borussia Dortmund, losing to the latter only and drawing the games with Sparta Praha twice and with Galatasaray.
In the Group B, United won the round, with Juventus finishing second, losing to United and Feyenoord away.
Knockout stage
Juventus overcame Rosenborg with a 2-0 win at home (F. Inzaghi's brace) and then confirmed their qualification with a 1-3 in Norway (Del Piero, Zidane, and Montero), Parma instead, after a 1-0 win in Parma (Crespo), was eliminated due to the 3-0 loss in Munich against Bayern.
In the Quarterfinals, Juventus smashed Dynamo Kyiv, with a 1-1 draw in Ukraine (with F. Inzaghi answering a goal by Husin) and then winning 4-1 in Turin (F. Inzaghi's hat trick and Del Piero for Juve, with Rebrov scoring for Dynamo.
In the Semifinals, Juventus defeated United, a team they had difficulties in the Group Stage, winning 2-1 in Manchester (Zidane and Del Piero, Solskjær for United) and then destroying United at home (Del Piero's hat trick and F.Inzaghi again), arriving for the third time in a row to the Final.
Final, Amsterdam Arena, Amsterdam, Netherlands - Real Madrid - Juventus (1-0) - attendance: 48,500 - referee: Hellmut Krug (GER)
Juventus arrived in Amsterdam for their third consecutive European final, and holding the top spot in the UEFA rankings, making them favorites against Real Madrid. Despite Madrid's inconsistent season, they returned to the Champions League final after seventeen years, though struggling in fourth place in La Liga. Juventus started strong, with Zinédine Zidane controlling the midfield and nearly scoring from a free kick. As the match progressed, Real Madrid gained momentum, with controversial calls for a penalty after Mark Iuliano's challenge on Predrag Mijatović and threats from Raúl and Roberto Carlos.
In the second half, Juventus continued to struggle with their play, and neither Filippo Inzaghi nor Alessandro Del Piero, who was injured during the match, received effective support. In the 66th minute, Mijatović scored for Real Madrid after recovering a deflected shot from Roberto Carlos, maneuvering past goalkeeper Angelo Peruzzi. Despite suspicions of offside, referee Hellmut Krug allowed the goal, a decision that remained controversial.
A minute later, Inzaghi missed a crucial chance to equalize from a Del Piero pass. Fifteen minutes from the end, Edgar Davids had another opportunity but shot directly at Madrid's goalkeeper Bodo Illgner. Despite Juventus's intense attacks in the closing minutes, the score remained unchanged. Real Madrid clinched their first European Cup title in thirty-two years, defeating Juventus 1-0.
UEFA Champions League Roll of Honor
UEFA Cup Winners' Cup - Vicenza
Unlike their struggles in the league, Vicenza emerged as a surprising contender in the Cup Winners' Cup. They started with a 2-0 home victory over Legia Warsaw (goals from Luiso and Ambrosetti) and then drew 1-1 away (Kacprzak for Legia, Zauli for Vicenza). Vicenza then secured a 2-1 win in Donetsk against Shakhtar (goals from Luiso and Beghetto, with Zubov scoring for Shakhtar).
In the quarterfinals, Vicenza stunned everyone by demolishing the Dutch side Roda. They won 4-1 in the Netherlands (with Luiso's brace, Belotti, and Otero scoring for Vicenza, and Peeters for Roda) and followed it up with an impressive 5-0 victory at home (goals from Luiso, Firmani, Mendez, Ambrosetti, and Zauli).
In the semifinals, Vicenza faced a strong Chelsea team. They continued to surprise by winning 1-0 at home (goal from Zauli) but were denied a place in the final at Stamford Bridge, where they lost 3-1 despite an early lead from Zauli. Chelsea's comeback came with goals from Poyet, Zola, and M. Hughes, ending Vicenza's remarkable run.
UEFA Cup Winners' Cup Roll of Honor
UEFA Confederation Cup - Parma, Andrea Doria, Genoa, and Lazio
Group stage
All Italian clubs qualified to the knockout stage except Doria, that couldn't achieve the qualification in a very difficult round that included Arsenal, PAOK, and Athletic Bilbao.
Knockout stage
UEFA Confederation Cup Roll of Honor
Juventus faced Barcelona in the UEFA Super Cup final, after the Catalans (UEFA Cup holders) defeated the modest Berliner TSV (Cup Winners' Cup champions) in the semifinal. The match was open, but Barcelona quickly took control with Luis Enrique scoring in the 8th minute. Despite Juventus' efforts to equalize, they struggled to make a significant impact. Barcelona doubled their lead after Fortunato fouled Rivaldo, who then scored the decisive penalty. Barcelona ultimately defeated Juventus, who missed their first major objective of the season.
Intercontinental Cup - National Stadium, Tokyo, Japan - Juventus - Cruzeiro (0-2), attendance: 51.514 - referee: José María García-Aranda (Spain)
Cruzeiro faced another Juventus opponent in the Intercontinental Cup, 21 years after their first appearance. Pre-match controversies arose over Cruzeiro's use of three loaned players (Donizete, Bebeto, and Gonçalves), but Juventus' protest was unsuccessful, and the players started the match.
Cruzeiro began aggressively, with Donizete and Palacios troubling Juventus' goalkeeper, Peruzzi. In the 34th minute, Cleisson unexpectedly took a free kick from the left, which Bebeto missed, but Donizete scored from behind him. Early in the second half, Juventus tried to respond, but after Birindelli's red card, they faltered. Cruzeiro repeatedly came close to doubling their lead, which they eventually did six minutes before the end with Bebeto finishing a cross from Elivelton, delivering the Intercontinenal Cup to Belo Horizonte.
UEFA Champions League - Juventus and Parma
Preliminary qualification round
Parma dispatched Widzew Łódź with a 7-1 aggregated score, winning 1-3 in Łódź (Chiesa's hat trick) and 4-0 at home (Pedros, Sensini, Adailton), qualifying to the group stage.
Group stage
In the Group A, Parma qualified second behind Borussia Dortmund, losing to the latter only and drawing the games with Sparta Praha twice and with Galatasaray.
In the Group B, United won the round, with Juventus finishing second, losing to United and Feyenoord away.
Knockout stage
Juventus overcame Rosenborg with a 2-0 win at home (F. Inzaghi's brace) and then confirmed their qualification with a 1-3 in Norway (Del Piero, Zidane, and Montero), Parma instead, after a 1-0 win in Parma (Crespo), was eliminated due to the 3-0 loss in Munich against Bayern.
In the Quarterfinals, Juventus smashed Dynamo Kyiv, with a 1-1 draw in Ukraine (with F. Inzaghi answering a goal by Husin) and then winning 4-1 in Turin (F. Inzaghi's hat trick and Del Piero for Juve, with Rebrov scoring for Dynamo.
In the Semifinals, Juventus defeated United, a team they had difficulties in the Group Stage, winning 2-1 in Manchester (Zidane and Del Piero, Solskjær for United) and then destroying United at home (Del Piero's hat trick and F.Inzaghi again), arriving for the third time in a row to the Final.
Final, Amsterdam Arena, Amsterdam, Netherlands - Real Madrid - Juventus (1-0) - attendance: 48,500 - referee: Hellmut Krug (GER)
Juventus arrived in Amsterdam for their third consecutive European final, and holding the top spot in the UEFA rankings, making them favorites against Real Madrid. Despite Madrid's inconsistent season, they returned to the Champions League final after seventeen years, though struggling in fourth place in La Liga. Juventus started strong, with Zinédine Zidane controlling the midfield and nearly scoring from a free kick. As the match progressed, Real Madrid gained momentum, with controversial calls for a penalty after Mark Iuliano's challenge on Predrag Mijatović and threats from Raúl and Roberto Carlos.
In the second half, Juventus continued to struggle with their play, and neither Filippo Inzaghi nor Alessandro Del Piero, who was injured during the match, received effective support. In the 66th minute, Mijatović scored for Real Madrid after recovering a deflected shot from Roberto Carlos, maneuvering past goalkeeper Angelo Peruzzi. Despite suspicions of offside, referee Hellmut Krug allowed the goal, a decision that remained controversial.
A minute later, Inzaghi missed a crucial chance to equalize from a Del Piero pass. Fifteen minutes from the end, Edgar Davids had another opportunity but shot directly at Madrid's goalkeeper Bodo Illgner. Despite Juventus's intense attacks in the closing minutes, the score remained unchanged. Real Madrid clinched their first European Cup title in thirty-two years, defeating Juventus 1-0.
UEFA Champions League Roll of Honor
UEFA Cup Winners' Cup - Vicenza
Unlike their struggles in the league, Vicenza emerged as a surprising contender in the Cup Winners' Cup. They started with a 2-0 home victory over Legia Warsaw (goals from Luiso and Ambrosetti) and then drew 1-1 away (Kacprzak for Legia, Zauli for Vicenza). Vicenza then secured a 2-1 win in Donetsk against Shakhtar (goals from Luiso and Beghetto, with Zubov scoring for Shakhtar).
In the quarterfinals, Vicenza stunned everyone by demolishing the Dutch side Roda. They won 4-1 in the Netherlands (with Luiso's brace, Belotti, and Otero scoring for Vicenza, and Peeters for Roda) and followed it up with an impressive 5-0 victory at home (goals from Luiso, Firmani, Mendez, Ambrosetti, and Zauli).
In the semifinals, Vicenza faced a strong Chelsea team. They continued to surprise by winning 1-0 at home (goal from Zauli) but were denied a place in the final at Stamford Bridge, where they lost 3-1 despite an early lead from Zauli. Chelsea's comeback came with goals from Poyet, Zola, and M. Hughes, ending Vicenza's remarkable run.
UEFA Cup Winners' Cup Roll of Honor
UEFA Confederation Cup - Parma, Andrea Doria, Genoa, and Lazio
Group stage
All Italian clubs qualified to the knockout stage except Doria, that couldn't achieve the qualification in a very difficult round that included Arsenal, PAOK, and Athletic Bilbao.
Knockout stage
UEFA Confederation Cup Roll of Honor
Hm, reaching last 16 with that Hajduk squad is more than a success really. Well, soon Darijo Srna will come! 🙏
They had already their time in the sun the previous season, but yes, they are the favorite for bookmakers with Juve and Lazio.
99 - UEFA: the new Challenge Cup and further reforms
UEFA Confederal Cup Reform
In the 1998-1999 season, UEFA introduced the new UEFA Challenge Cup, aimed at minor federations and mid-level clubs from major leagues such as Italy, Spain, and Germany. This season also marked the last for the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup. UEFA's controversial decision was overturned following strong opposition from major federations and fans. This led to a saturation of European competitions, prompting many top clubs to call for a reduction in European matches.
The new format for the 1998-1999 season was as follows:
UEFA Champions League (52 teams)
The UEFA Super Cup becomes a four-way affair between the four winners of the respective Confederal Cups.
The slots by Federation are resumed in the summary table below, and will be updated according to the Federation UEFA Ranking each season.
In the 1998-1999 season, UEFA introduced the new UEFA Challenge Cup, aimed at minor federations and mid-level clubs from major leagues such as Italy, Spain, and Germany. This season also marked the last for the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup. UEFA's controversial decision was overturned following strong opposition from major federations and fans. This led to a saturation of European competitions, prompting many top clubs to call for a reduction in European matches.
The new format for the 1998-1999 season was as follows:
UEFA Champions League (52 teams)
- Admission Rules (valid from 1998/1999):
- UEFA Champions League champion (1)
- UEFA Confederation Cup champion (1)
- National champions (42)
- Second-placed teams from the top 8 national leagues (8)
- Structure:
- First qualifying round (8 -> 4 teams)
- Second qualifying round (32 -> 16 teams)
- Group stage (4 teams per group, home and away) (16 + 16 teams)
- Round of 16 (home and away) (16 -> 8 teams)
- Quarterfinals (home and away) (8 -> 4 teams)
- Semifinals (home and away) (4 -> 2 teams)
- Final (single match) (2 -> 1 winner)
- Admission Rules (valid from 1999/2000, provisional for 1998-1999 with previous rules):
- Semifinalists of the UEFA Challenge Cup (4)
- Teams eliminated in the second qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League (16)
- Teams placed in their national leagues (64)
- Structure:
- First qualifying round (16 -> 8 teams)
- Group stage (6 teams per group, home and away) (8 + 16 + 24 teams) - includes teams eliminated in the second qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League (16 teams)
- Round of 16 (home and away) (16 -> 8 teams)
- Quarterfinals (home and away) (8 -> 4 teams)
- Semifinals (home and away) (4 -> 2 teams)
- Final (single match) (2 -> 1 winner)
- Admission Rules (valid from 1999/2000, based on 1998/1999 placements):
- Third-placed teams from UEFA Confederation Cup groups (16)
- Teams placed in their national leagues (48)
- Structure:
- First qualifying round (28 -> 14 teams)
- Group stage (4 teams per group, home and away) (14 + 18 = 32 -> 16 teams)
- Second group stage (4 teams per group, home and away) (16 + 16 = 32 teams) - includes third-placed teams from UEFA Confederation Cup groups (16 teams)
- Quarterfinals (home and away) (8 -> 4 teams)
- Semifinals (home and away) (4 -> 2 teams)
- Final (single match) (2 -> 1 winner)
- Admission Rules (valid from 1999/2000, provisional for 1998-1999 with previous rules):
- National cup winners (42)
- Cup winners already qualified for other UEFA competitions could choose to participate or cede their spot to the runner-up, who could decline and offer the spot to the semifinalists, prioritizing the higher-placed team in the national league. If semifinalists were also qualified for other UEFA competitions, the spot would remain vacant.
- Structure:
- First qualifying round (26 -> 13 teams)
- Round of 32 (home and away) (13 + 19 = 32 -> 16 teams)
- Round of 16 (home and away) (16 -> 8 teams)
- Quarterfinals (home and away) (8 -> 4 teams)
- Semifinals (home and away) (4 -> 2 teams)
- Final (single match) (2 -> 1 winner)
The UEFA Super Cup becomes a four-way affair between the four winners of the respective Confederal Cups.
The slots by Federation are resumed in the summary table below, and will be updated according to the Federation UEFA Ranking each season.
99 - Domestic - Serie A & Italian Super Cup: a thrilling finale for Serie A
NOTE: Coppa del Re will now have a separate threadmark
Off-League
In terms of commercial aspects, TIM, the national mobile phone company, became the sole sponsor of national soccer competitions.
Regarding refereeing, after a previous season marked by various controversies over the referees' performance, FIF and Lega Calcio attempted an innovation never before tested in the history of the Italian championship: the full draw, replacing the previous designator. This idea, theoretically aimed at ensuring impartiality, was applied "in groups," meaning for both the top division and the second division. This attempt, carried out despite opposition from the Referees' Association (CAN), did not succeed and actually intensified the criticism towards the refereeing body, leading to its abandonment the following year.
From a regulatory standpoint, after a review in early 1998, direct expulsion for tackles from behind was approved.
The championship saw the return of two historic clubs that had been absent for some time: Salernitana returned to the top division after half a century since its first and until then only appearance (1947-1948), while Venezia returned after a 31-year absence. Cagliari reappeared after just one year, while Liberty Bari returned to Serie A after the 1995-1996 season, defeating Brescia in the promotion playoff.
Transfer Market
The newly crowned champions Ambrosiana strengthened their squad with the addition of Croatian defender Simic (DF), French players Silvestre (DF) and Frey (GK) to deepen the bench, and the young rising star from Brescia, Andrea Pirlo (SS). Departing the club were striker Ganz (FW), midfielder Moriero (MF), and the disappointing Sartor (DF).
Juventus, who had been outdone by Ambrosiana the previous year, brought in the strong and promising Croatian defender and midfielder Tudor (DF/MF), the promising Perrotta (MF), and the French winger/second striker Henry (FW). However, tensions between coach Lippi and the club began to affect the team's performance on the field from the start of the season.
Udinese, following the coaching change from Zaccheroni (who moved to Milan) to Guidolin (from Vicenza), limited itself to secondary operations and the development of prospects like Appiah (MF).
Capitolina, under Zeman and its star Totti (SS), cleaned out some underperforming players and strengthened the attack with the Argentine Bartelt (FW) and the Brazilian Fabio Junior (FW), touted by the media as the Roman answer to Ambrosiana's Ronaldo.
Parma welcomed Balbo (FW) from Capitolina, Sensini (DF/MF) from Genoa, Sartor (DF) from Ambrosiana, Fuser (MF) from Torino, and Boghossian (MF), fresh world champion, from Andrea Doria.
Lazio, after the double victory in the UEFA Confederation Cup and Coppa del Re, greatly reinforced their squad aiming for the championship. They brought the striker Vieri (FW) back to Italy from Real Madrid and paired him with Chilean Salas (FW). Sergio Conceiçao (MF) and Dejan Stankovic (MF) arrived to strengthen the midfield, while the experience of Couto (DF) and Mihajlovic (DF)—snatched from a declining Andrea Doria—helped improve the defense's solidity.
Firenze hired Giovanni Trapattoni as head coach and, like Lazio and Parma, openly aimed for the championship. They strengthened the squad with the Prussian Heinrich (DF), the Czechoslovak Repka (DF), the experienced Spaniard Guillermo Amor (MF), and a series of players like Torricelli (DF) from Juventus.
Doria lost Signori (FW), Mihajlovic (DF), and Boghossian (MF). The team was reinforced with experienced players like Grandoni (DF) and Sakic (DF), relying on the flair of the Argentine Ariel Ortega (SS/FW) and the Brazilian Doriva (MF) to support striker Protti (FW). Luciano Spalletti, the man behind the Empoli miracle, came to lead the Genoese.
Bologna, which saw a coaching change from Renzo Ulivieri to Carlo Mazzone, made a surprise move by signing Signori (FW) from Doria and adding quality players like Maini (MF), Bia (DF), and Ingesson (MF).
Torino brought coach Mondonico back home. The team faced serious departures, including the flag-bearer Fuser (MF) and the retirement of captain Cravero (DF). CEO Giraudo and Mondonico heavily recruited from Serie B, bringing in striker Artistico (FW) and encouraging the return of Scienza (MF), a former youth player from Torino. The club's financial difficulties continued to worsen, pushing them to sell their best players and actively engage in player trading to balance the books. However, the youth system was producing the promising forward Sergio Pellissier (FW), who started gaining more space in the first team.
Milan, in a deep identity crisis over the past two seasons, hired Zaccheroni from Udinese, who brought Helveg (DF) and Bierhoff (FW) with him. Additionally, Milan recalled young players Ambrosini (MF) and Coco (DF), who had performed well on loan at Vicenza, signed defender Sala (DF) from Atalanta, striker Ganz (FW) from city rivals Ambrosiana, and Argentine Guglielminpietro (MF). The Montenegrin "Genius" Savicevic left the club after many years.
Among others, Genoa had to make do with the sales of Sensini (DF/MF) and Kallon (FW), but managed to retain Zanetti (DF/MF), who was increasingly tied to the red and blue side of Genoa. Venezia obtained the Uruguayan playmaker Recoba (SS) on loan from Ambrosiana, pairing him with striker Maniero (FW). Cagliari bet on Kallon (FW) and Mboma (FW), while Liberty Bari showcased their talents: Ventola (FW), Zambrotta (MF), and the very young Antonio Cassano (SS).
Promotion & relegation knock-off
As usual, in the early August, the Playoff took place between the fourth-to-last team of Serie A, Brescia, and the Serie B 4th placed, Liberty Bari:
The 1998-1999 Serie A consisted of a single 18-team national league. The latter three placed teams withstand direct relegation, while the 15th placed is forced to the playout against the 4th Serie B club.
The match was played on August 28, 1998, two days after the second leg of the playoff between Brescia and Liberty Bari. The setting at the "Mazzola" was not ideal due to the heat and vacation season. Both Ambrosiana and Lazio had numerous players who participated in the recent World Cup in France, resulting in a superficial physical preparation and very few vacation days before the Italian Super Cup. Among these was Ronaldo, Ambrosiana's star, who was deeply affected by the World Cup efforts and was rested by Simoni.
Lazio, perhaps fresher than Ambrosiana, set the match on a physically intense track, putting the Checkers' midfield in crisis. Tacchinardi was in great form, while his teammates Cauet and Simeone struggled to contain the incursions of Lazio's wingers, Sergio Conceiçao and Nedved. It was the Czechoslovak midfielder who scored Lazio's lead in the 37th minute, with a fine backheel assist from Mancini, after two attempts saved by Pagliuca.
At the start of the second half, Lazio came close to doubling their lead in the 53rd minute with Mancini and Salas fumbling over a ball delivered by De La Peña, on which Pagliuca was quicker. In the 58th minute, Lazio missed the 2-0 again, with substitute Stankovic (in place of Nedved) heading the ball one-on-one with Pagliuca, who once again kept the Checkers in the game. Simoni went all in and brought on Ronaldo in the 67th minute for a lackluster Kanu. There was also time for Ambrosiana's Simeone to be sent off for a second yellow card in the 64th minute for holding back Lazio's Venturin.
Despite Ambrosiana having done almost nothing all game and being down to 10 men against 11, Roberto Baggio's invention in the 87th minute put Ronaldo face-to-face with Marchegiani, allowing the Milan team to equalize. There was also a missed penalty for Ambrosiana in the 89th minute when Di Biagio brought down Djorkaeff in the box during a corner kick. Referee Bettin did not call it and allowed play to continue since Simic was about to shoot, but he missed the target. This led to several controversies, and the Padovan referee's decision remains contentious.
There was still time for another change in the score during injury time: in the 94th minute, a combination between Salas and De La Peña produced a great ball for Mancini, who passed it to an unmarked Conceiçao in the box. He shot and beat an innocent Pagliuca, giving Lazio the victory in the Italian Super Cup.
The Championship
First leg
The tournament following the World Cup in France kicked off on September 12, 1998. The main favorites for the title appeared to be reigning champions Ambrosiana and Juventus, hinting at a possible continuation of the fierce rivalry from the previous season. However, it was Firenze that initially caught the spotlight, led by a record-breaking goalscoring performance from Batistuta—he scored 17 goals in the first 17 league matches—and notably achieving a decisive victory in the third round at Milan, who were still searching for their identity (1-3).
Juventus seemed capable of countering Firenze's attempt to pull away, while autumn saw the premature exit of the Checkers from the top positions, suffering due to the poor physical condition of their number nine, Ronaldo. On the seventh matchday, Juventus capitalized on a Tuscan collapse against Parma, a team also considered a potential dark horse, and took the sole lead. However, their lead lasted only a week, as a draw in Udine resulted in an immediate overtaking by Firenze, and worse, the loss of their number ten, Del Piero, who was severely injured for the rest of the season. By the end of November, Juventus, having lost their way, had already relinquished their title defense.
Taking advantage of Juventus' sudden slowdown, Trapattoni's men confirmed their strong form in the following weeks by defeating both pre-
season favorites. By the end of the first half of the season, Parma was in the chase, along with Lazio—who had climbed from mid-table thanks to a series of nine consecutive victories (including an away win against Juventus and a home victory over Fiorentina)—and Zaccheroni's new Milan. Despite the mentioned setback on January 10, 1999, against Lazio, Fiorentina claimed the symbolic title of winter champions, three points ahead of Lazio and Parma, and five ahead of Milan.
At the bottom, newly promoted teams Venezia and Salernitana were struggling with severe ranking issues, while Andrea Doria, far from its better years, found itself entangled in the relegation battle alongside their neighbors Genoa, another fallen giant.
Second leg
With the start of the second half of the season, Lazio emerged from the pack of contenders, bolstered by the return of both captain Nesta and striker Vieri. On February 14, despite a goalless draw at Sant'Elia, Lazio caught up to Fiorentina, who were defeated in Udine. The following week, Lazio overtook Fiorentina by defeating an Ambrosiana side in full crisis at the Olimpico—a change in management from Simoni to Mircea Lucescu had no effect—while Fiorentina was held to a draw at home by Capitolina.
Within a month, Lazio built a substantial lead, extending to +7 over their nearest rival, an increasingly lively Milan but deemed too far behind to mount a serious challenge. Taking advantage of a slump by Fiorentina—who were weakened up front by Batistuta's injury and Edmundo's long-standing issues with the club—as well as Parma's distraction from cup commitments, Sven-Göran Eriksson's team seemed to have no rivals left. This situation appeared to solidify on April 3, when the direct clash in Rome ended favorably for the home team in a goalless draw.
However, in the following weeks, Lazio suffered two home defeats, first in the derby and then against a fluctuating Juventus. Juventus, having abruptly ended an era with Lippi's resignation, had fast-tracked Carlo Ancelotti's arrival to try and salvage the season. Simultaneously, by winning at San Siro against Parma and at Friuli against Udinese, Milan reopened the title race, moving to within one point of the top.
With the gap between the two leaders remaining unchanged for the next three rounds, the penultimate matchday on May 15 saw Milan move ahead with a win over an already relegated Empoli, while Lazio drew at Fiorentina. Milan was now one point ahead of the Roman club with one game left and had the advantage of facing Genoa away, who were fighting to reach at least the playouts, whereas Lazio had to defeat Parma at home, who were trying to fend off Juventus and Ambrosiana for UEFA spots.
The final day witnessed a dramatic turn of events. Lazio managed to edge Parma 2-1, while Milan could only draw with their old rivals Genoa, thanks to a stunning goal by Mutarelli that equalized the game 2-2, with a volley that Toldo couldn't save. Milan had been overtaken by Lazio by one point, with the final standings showing Lazio at 63 points and Milan at 62. It was a moment of triumph for the Roman club, who lifted their third Scudetto.
For the second consecutive year, the top scorer was from Udinese, with Brazilian Márcio Amoroso scoring 22 goals. Conversely, it was a season to forget for the pre-season favorites Juventus and Ambrosiana. Juventus missed out on the UEFA Confederation Cup, finishing eighth, while Ambrosiana, with a season ending under Hodgson, barely secured the last UEFA Cup spot in sixth place, ending with a negative goal difference for the first time in years.
At the bottom, Empoli was doomed almost from the start, and similarly, the brief golden period of Vicenza in this decade came to an end. Salernitana secured a playout spot with a victory over Torino, relegating Genoa to Serie B after several years of mid-to-upper table finishes, marking their return to the second division after a decade. Despite Genoa de facto ripped the Scudetto patch from Milan's shirts, they couldn't help themselves even with that final, relevant, draw.
Final League Table
Scudetto Roll of Honor
Off-League
In terms of commercial aspects, TIM, the national mobile phone company, became the sole sponsor of national soccer competitions.
Regarding refereeing, after a previous season marked by various controversies over the referees' performance, FIF and Lega Calcio attempted an innovation never before tested in the history of the Italian championship: the full draw, replacing the previous designator. This idea, theoretically aimed at ensuring impartiality, was applied "in groups," meaning for both the top division and the second division. This attempt, carried out despite opposition from the Referees' Association (CAN), did not succeed and actually intensified the criticism towards the refereeing body, leading to its abandonment the following year.
From a regulatory standpoint, after a review in early 1998, direct expulsion for tackles from behind was approved.
The championship saw the return of two historic clubs that had been absent for some time: Salernitana returned to the top division after half a century since its first and until then only appearance (1947-1948), while Venezia returned after a 31-year absence. Cagliari reappeared after just one year, while Liberty Bari returned to Serie A after the 1995-1996 season, defeating Brescia in the promotion playoff.
Transfer Market
The newly crowned champions Ambrosiana strengthened their squad with the addition of Croatian defender Simic (DF), French players Silvestre (DF) and Frey (GK) to deepen the bench, and the young rising star from Brescia, Andrea Pirlo (SS). Departing the club were striker Ganz (FW), midfielder Moriero (MF), and the disappointing Sartor (DF).
Juventus, who had been outdone by Ambrosiana the previous year, brought in the strong and promising Croatian defender and midfielder Tudor (DF/MF), the promising Perrotta (MF), and the French winger/second striker Henry (FW). However, tensions between coach Lippi and the club began to affect the team's performance on the field from the start of the season.
Udinese, following the coaching change from Zaccheroni (who moved to Milan) to Guidolin (from Vicenza), limited itself to secondary operations and the development of prospects like Appiah (MF).
Capitolina, under Zeman and its star Totti (SS), cleaned out some underperforming players and strengthened the attack with the Argentine Bartelt (FW) and the Brazilian Fabio Junior (FW), touted by the media as the Roman answer to Ambrosiana's Ronaldo.
Parma welcomed Balbo (FW) from Capitolina, Sensini (DF/MF) from Genoa, Sartor (DF) from Ambrosiana, Fuser (MF) from Torino, and Boghossian (MF), fresh world champion, from Andrea Doria.
Lazio, after the double victory in the UEFA Confederation Cup and Coppa del Re, greatly reinforced their squad aiming for the championship. They brought the striker Vieri (FW) back to Italy from Real Madrid and paired him with Chilean Salas (FW). Sergio Conceiçao (MF) and Dejan Stankovic (MF) arrived to strengthen the midfield, while the experience of Couto (DF) and Mihajlovic (DF)—snatched from a declining Andrea Doria—helped improve the defense's solidity.
Firenze hired Giovanni Trapattoni as head coach and, like Lazio and Parma, openly aimed for the championship. They strengthened the squad with the Prussian Heinrich (DF), the Czechoslovak Repka (DF), the experienced Spaniard Guillermo Amor (MF), and a series of players like Torricelli (DF) from Juventus.
Doria lost Signori (FW), Mihajlovic (DF), and Boghossian (MF). The team was reinforced with experienced players like Grandoni (DF) and Sakic (DF), relying on the flair of the Argentine Ariel Ortega (SS/FW) and the Brazilian Doriva (MF) to support striker Protti (FW). Luciano Spalletti, the man behind the Empoli miracle, came to lead the Genoese.
Bologna, which saw a coaching change from Renzo Ulivieri to Carlo Mazzone, made a surprise move by signing Signori (FW) from Doria and adding quality players like Maini (MF), Bia (DF), and Ingesson (MF).
Torino brought coach Mondonico back home. The team faced serious departures, including the flag-bearer Fuser (MF) and the retirement of captain Cravero (DF). CEO Giraudo and Mondonico heavily recruited from Serie B, bringing in striker Artistico (FW) and encouraging the return of Scienza (MF), a former youth player from Torino. The club's financial difficulties continued to worsen, pushing them to sell their best players and actively engage in player trading to balance the books. However, the youth system was producing the promising forward Sergio Pellissier (FW), who started gaining more space in the first team.
Milan, in a deep identity crisis over the past two seasons, hired Zaccheroni from Udinese, who brought Helveg (DF) and Bierhoff (FW) with him. Additionally, Milan recalled young players Ambrosini (MF) and Coco (DF), who had performed well on loan at Vicenza, signed defender Sala (DF) from Atalanta, striker Ganz (FW) from city rivals Ambrosiana, and Argentine Guglielminpietro (MF). The Montenegrin "Genius" Savicevic left the club after many years.
Among others, Genoa had to make do with the sales of Sensini (DF/MF) and Kallon (FW), but managed to retain Zanetti (DF/MF), who was increasingly tied to the red and blue side of Genoa. Venezia obtained the Uruguayan playmaker Recoba (SS) on loan from Ambrosiana, pairing him with striker Maniero (FW). Cagliari bet on Kallon (FW) and Mboma (FW), while Liberty Bari showcased their talents: Ventola (FW), Zambrotta (MF), and the very young Antonio Cassano (SS).
Promotion & relegation knock-off
As usual, in the early August, the Playoff took place between the fourth-to-last team of Serie A, Brescia, and the Serie B 4th placed, Liberty Bari:
- Liberty Bari – Brescia (2-0 - Ventola, Masinga)
- Brescia – Liberty Bari (0-1 – De Ascentis)
- Salernitana, Cagliari, and Venezia promoted to Serie A through Serie B placement;
- Piacenza, Atalanta, and Naples relegated to Serie B through Serie A placement;
- Brescia relegated to Serie B/ Liberty Bari promoted to Serie A through Playoff.
The 1998-1999 Serie A consisted of a single 18-team national league. The latter three placed teams withstand direct relegation, while the 15th placed is forced to the playout against the 4th Serie B club.
- Ambrosiana (National Champion), Juventus (2nd placed), and Lazio (UEFA Confederation Cup Title Holder) to 1998-1999 UEFA Champions League;
- Milan (Coppa del Re runner-up) to the 1998-1999 UEFA Cup Winners' Cup;
- Udinese, Capitolina, Parma, and Firenze to the 1998-1999 UEFA Confederation Cup;
- Andrea Doria and Bologna to the 1998-1999 UEFA Challenge Cup;
- Ambrosiana and Lazio to the Italian Super Cup.
- Lazio to the UEFA Super Cup
- Ambrosiana - (Nike / Magneti Marelli - electronics)
- Juventus - (Kappa / D+– pay-per-view television)
- Udinese - (Diadora / Telit - telecommunications)
- Capitolina - (Diadora / INA Assitalia – insurance)
- Parma - (Lotto / Parmalat – food)
- Lazio - (Puma / Cirio - food)
- Firenze – (Fila / Nintendo– gaming)
- Andrea Doria - (Asics / Daewoo - automotive)
- Bologna - (Diadora / Granarolo - food)
- Torino - (Kelme / SDA – express couriers)
- Milan – (Adidas / OPEL – automotive)
- Empoli - (Erreà / Sammontana– food)
- Vicenza - (Biemme / Belfe - clothing)
- Genoa - (Kappa / Festival Crociere - cruising)
- Salernitana - (Asics / Exigo Jeans & Casual - clothing)
- Cagliari - (Biemme / Pecorino Sardo - food)
- Venezia - (Kronos / Emmezeta - furniture)
- Liberty Bari - (Lotto / Tele+ - pay-per-view television)
Lazio, perhaps fresher than Ambrosiana, set the match on a physically intense track, putting the Checkers' midfield in crisis. Tacchinardi was in great form, while his teammates Cauet and Simeone struggled to contain the incursions of Lazio's wingers, Sergio Conceiçao and Nedved. It was the Czechoslovak midfielder who scored Lazio's lead in the 37th minute, with a fine backheel assist from Mancini, after two attempts saved by Pagliuca.
At the start of the second half, Lazio came close to doubling their lead in the 53rd minute with Mancini and Salas fumbling over a ball delivered by De La Peña, on which Pagliuca was quicker. In the 58th minute, Lazio missed the 2-0 again, with substitute Stankovic (in place of Nedved) heading the ball one-on-one with Pagliuca, who once again kept the Checkers in the game. Simoni went all in and brought on Ronaldo in the 67th minute for a lackluster Kanu. There was also time for Ambrosiana's Simeone to be sent off for a second yellow card in the 64th minute for holding back Lazio's Venturin.
Despite Ambrosiana having done almost nothing all game and being down to 10 men against 11, Roberto Baggio's invention in the 87th minute put Ronaldo face-to-face with Marchegiani, allowing the Milan team to equalize. There was also a missed penalty for Ambrosiana in the 89th minute when Di Biagio brought down Djorkaeff in the box during a corner kick. Referee Bettin did not call it and allowed play to continue since Simic was about to shoot, but he missed the target. This led to several controversies, and the Padovan referee's decision remains contentious.
There was still time for another change in the score during injury time: in the 94th minute, a combination between Salas and De La Peña produced a great ball for Mancini, who passed it to an unmarked Conceiçao in the box. He shot and beat an innocent Pagliuca, giving Lazio the victory in the Italian Super Cup.
The Championship
First leg
The tournament following the World Cup in France kicked off on September 12, 1998. The main favorites for the title appeared to be reigning champions Ambrosiana and Juventus, hinting at a possible continuation of the fierce rivalry from the previous season. However, it was Firenze that initially caught the spotlight, led by a record-breaking goalscoring performance from Batistuta—he scored 17 goals in the first 17 league matches—and notably achieving a decisive victory in the third round at Milan, who were still searching for their identity (1-3).
Juventus seemed capable of countering Firenze's attempt to pull away, while autumn saw the premature exit of the Checkers from the top positions, suffering due to the poor physical condition of their number nine, Ronaldo. On the seventh matchday, Juventus capitalized on a Tuscan collapse against Parma, a team also considered a potential dark horse, and took the sole lead. However, their lead lasted only a week, as a draw in Udine resulted in an immediate overtaking by Firenze, and worse, the loss of their number ten, Del Piero, who was severely injured for the rest of the season. By the end of November, Juventus, having lost their way, had already relinquished their title defense.
Taking advantage of Juventus' sudden slowdown, Trapattoni's men confirmed their strong form in the following weeks by defeating both pre-
At the bottom, newly promoted teams Venezia and Salernitana were struggling with severe ranking issues, while Andrea Doria, far from its better years, found itself entangled in the relegation battle alongside their neighbors Genoa, another fallen giant.
Second leg
Within a month, Lazio built a substantial lead, extending to +7 over their nearest rival, an increasingly lively Milan but deemed too far behind to mount a serious challenge. Taking advantage of a slump by Fiorentina—who were weakened up front by Batistuta's injury and Edmundo's long-standing issues with the club—as well as Parma's distraction from cup commitments, Sven-Göran Eriksson's team seemed to have no rivals left. This situation appeared to solidify on April 3, when the direct clash in Rome ended favorably for the home team in a goalless draw.
However, in the following weeks, Lazio suffered two home defeats, first in the derby and then against a fluctuating Juventus. Juventus, having abruptly ended an era with Lippi's resignation, had fast-tracked Carlo Ancelotti's arrival to try and salvage the season. Simultaneously, by winning at San Siro against Parma and at Friuli against Udinese, Milan reopened the title race, moving to within one point of the top.
With the gap between the two leaders remaining unchanged for the next three rounds, the penultimate matchday on May 15 saw Milan move ahead with a win over an already relegated Empoli, while Lazio drew at Fiorentina. Milan was now one point ahead of the Roman club with one game left and had the advantage of facing Genoa away, who were fighting to reach at least the playouts, whereas Lazio had to defeat Parma at home, who were trying to fend off Juventus and Ambrosiana for UEFA spots.
The final day witnessed a dramatic turn of events. Lazio managed to edge Parma 2-1, while Milan could only draw with their old rivals Genoa, thanks to a stunning goal by Mutarelli that equalized the game 2-2, with a volley that Toldo couldn't save. Milan had been overtaken by Lazio by one point, with the final standings showing Lazio at 63 points and Milan at 62. It was a moment of triumph for the Roman club, who lifted their third Scudetto.
At the bottom, Empoli was doomed almost from the start, and similarly, the brief golden period of Vicenza in this decade came to an end. Salernitana secured a playout spot with a victory over Torino, relegating Genoa to Serie B after several years of mid-to-upper table finishes, marking their return to the second division after a decade. Despite Genoa de facto ripped the Scudetto patch from Milan's shirts, they couldn't help themselves even with that final, relevant, draw.
Final League Table
Scudetto Roll of Honor
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Not my favourite club but I gotta congratulate Lazio hahaha. My dad used to love them because Bokšić played there
99 - Domestic - Coppa del Re
FIF Cup
The FIF started to think about an additional FIF (Federazione Italiana Football) Cup, open to all the clubs above the Promozione leagues (7th level). The new cup will have a Regional/Interregional qualification system for Promozione (7th), Eccellenza (6th) and Elite leagues (5th), to qualify further 48 clubs (24 for Elite level, 16 for Eccellenza level, and 8 for Promozione level). Eight regional groupings are instated:
- Turin, Piedmont, Western Lombardy
- Milan, Trentino, Emilia, Eastern Lombardy
- Northern Marche, Romagna, Veneto, Friuli, Julia, Istria, and Fiume
- Coastal Tuscany, Sardinia, Genoa, Liguria
- Inner Tuscany, Umbria, Northern Lazio, and Southern Marche
- Rome, Southern Lazio, Abruzzi, Molise, and Northern Campania
- Naples, Southern Campania, Lucania and Apulia
- Sicily and Calabria
This phase would be held in early September, to have the six winners enter the former Serie D Cup together with the 80 Serie D clubs to have a 128 clubs scoreboard with single leg elimination matches to be held within October.
The following step would include the 64 qualified clubs to meet the professional sides of Serie A, B, and C (enlarged to 24 teams starting from season 1999/2000) in a single leg game between November and December, to then proceed in a single leg fashion to the Round of 32, Round of 16, Quarterfinals, Semifinals, and Finals.
Despite the opposition of Serie A clubs, already engulfed in many European fixtures, FIF pushes through the reform, with many of the Serie A club that will present their Youth teams in the FIF Cup the following season.
Coppa del Re
The Coppa del Re continued with the following setup, using a scoreboard based on rankings from 1 to 64. The participants were as follows:
Round of 32
The only notable exclusions coming from the Round of 32 included the reigning Italian champions of Ambrosiana (defeated by Lucchese in Tuscany with a 1-0 score and uncapable to go beyond a 2-2 draw in Milan) and the incumbent Coppa del Re holder, Lazio, that capitulated on a home defeat (2-3) in the extra time against Triestina.
Round of 16
First leg – Stadio Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro), Milan - attendance: 69,717 - ref. Messina (Bergamo) – Milan – Parma (2-2)
In the first match, held in Milan, the Milan team quickly took the lead in the 15th minute with a goal from Bierhoff, playing a tough and intense game. Parma struggled significantly but managed to equalize at the beginning of the second half with a header from Crespo, following a precise cross
from the ever-reliable Figo in the 48th minute. Parma then took control of the game but suffered an unexpected setback in the 71st minute when Milan scored from a corner kick. Sala headed the ball into the net from Leonardo's cross. Milan then adopted a defensive stance, trying to withstand Parma's assaults. Unfortunately for the Rossoneri, a slip by Helveg freed Figo, who made an unchallenged low cross to the oncoming Fuser. Fuser scored against Toldo in the 87th minute, leveling the match at 2-2.
Second leg – Stadio Ennio Tardini, Parma - attendance: 22,403 - ref. Braschi (Prato) – Parma – Milan (1-2)
In the return match in Parma, Milan, still battling for the title with Lazio, was considered the underdog. Zaccheroni relied heavily on his bench, including the experienced Donadoni (who had returned to Milan in the winter transfer window), Ba, and Ganz. The Rossoneri's second-string players did not disappoint the Romagnolo coach, with Donadoni scoring a superb free-kick in the 44th minute to make it 1-0. Milan was immediately pegged back at the beginning of the second half by the ever-reliable Crespo, who equalized in the 52nd minute after dribbling past a somewhat stiff-legged Sala.
The Milan of the second string, buoyed by their good run in the league, continued to play with aggression and intensity. They had two clear chances, with Bierhoff hitting the crossbar in the 59th minute and Guglielminpietro being denied by a miraculous save from Buffon in the 64th minute. However, Milan eventually managed to score again, with Bierhoff rising above Thuram to head in a cross from Bergomi in the 71st minute, securing Milan their sixth Coppa del Re.
Coppa del Re Roll of Honor
The FIF started to think about an additional FIF (Federazione Italiana Football) Cup, open to all the clubs above the Promozione leagues (7th level). The new cup will have a Regional/Interregional qualification system for Promozione (7th), Eccellenza (6th) and Elite leagues (5th), to qualify further 48 clubs (24 for Elite level, 16 for Eccellenza level, and 8 for Promozione level). Eight regional groupings are instated:
- Turin, Piedmont, Western Lombardy
- Milan, Trentino, Emilia, Eastern Lombardy
- Northern Marche, Romagna, Veneto, Friuli, Julia, Istria, and Fiume
- Coastal Tuscany, Sardinia, Genoa, Liguria
- Inner Tuscany, Umbria, Northern Lazio, and Southern Marche
- Rome, Southern Lazio, Abruzzi, Molise, and Northern Campania
- Naples, Southern Campania, Lucania and Apulia
- Sicily and Calabria
This phase would be held in early September, to have the six winners enter the former Serie D Cup together with the 80 Serie D clubs to have a 128 clubs scoreboard with single leg elimination matches to be held within October.
The following step would include the 64 qualified clubs to meet the professional sides of Serie A, B, and C (enlarged to 24 teams starting from season 1999/2000) in a single leg game between November and December, to then proceed in a single leg fashion to the Round of 32, Round of 16, Quarterfinals, Semifinals, and Finals.
Despite the opposition of Serie A clubs, already engulfed in many European fixtures, FIF pushes through the reform, with many of the Serie A club that will present their Youth teams in the FIF Cup the following season.
Coppa del Re
The Coppa del Re continued with the following setup, using a scoreboard based on rankings from 1 to 64. The participants were as follows:
- 18 Serie A teams
- 20 Serie B teams
- 20 Serie C teams
- 6 Serie D teams (4 winners of respective rounds + 2 winners of a playout phase among the second placed in each round)
Round of 32
The only notable exclusions coming from the Round of 32 included the reigning Italian champions of Ambrosiana (defeated by Lucchese in Tuscany with a 1-0 score and uncapable to go beyond a 2-2 draw in Milan) and the incumbent Coppa del Re holder, Lazio, that capitulated on a home defeat (2-3) in the extra time against Triestina.
Round of 16
- Lucchese and Atalanta draw 2-2 in Lucca (Tarantino's brace for the hosts, and Caccia and Donati for the guests). The Bergamo team then managed to win at home 4-2 (Caccia's brace, Gallo, and Cossato for Atalanta, Colacone's brace for Lucchese)
- Doria and Bologna tied 2-2 in Bologna (Protti's brace for the Dorians, Ingesson and Signori for Bologna), while in the return leg, Veron scored a penalty that awared a 1-0 home win for the Genoese.
- Triestina defeated 2-1 Milan at home (Scoria and Godeas for the locals, Weah for the guests), but Milan won the return leg 2-0 (Leonardo and Guglielminpietro), qualifying to the Quarterfinals
- Cagliari managed a big upset in the odds, defeating Capitolina 1-0 in both games (Kallon in Cagliari, Muzzi in Rome)
- Udinese and Salernitana tied the home game 2-2 in Salerno (Amoroso and Bachini for the Friuli team, Di Michele's brace for Salernitana) while the former won 1-0 at home (Walem)
- Parma defeated Venezia 1-0 away (Chiesa) and tied 1-1 the game in Venice (Maniero for the hosts, D. Baggio for the Emilians)
- Torino defeated Firenze 3-1 at home (Ferrante, Mezzano, and Artistico for the hosts, Edmundo for the guests) and then violated 0-2 Firenze away (Ferrante's brace)
- Juventus defeated Naples 0-1 away (Di Livio) and tied the home game 1-1 (F. Inzaghi for Juventus, Turrini for Naples).
- Doria defeated Atalanta 1-2 away (Caccia for the hosts, Protti and Laigle for the Genoese) and won the return game too (1-0, Protti again)
- Milan went to Cagliari, winning 1-3 (Ganz's brace and Coco for Milan, De Patre for the locals) and lost 2-3 in the extra time, when Bergomi scored the crucial 2-3 to award Milan the qualification to the Semifinals. The goals were from Weah for Milan - O'Neill, Kallon, and Villa for Cagliari.
- Parma won 2-0 at home against Udinese (Crespo and Thuram), securing the qualification with a scoreless draw in Udine.
- Torino won 3-0 the home derby against Juventus with an incredible performance of Lentini (a brace, with an additional assist to Ferrante). Juventus managed then to win the home game with a goal by F. Inzaghi, not enough to reach the Semifinals.
- Milan won in Genoa against Doria (0-1 - Ganz) and then stopped the return of Doria in Milan on a 1-1, impacting with Leonardo after the initial goal by Sakić.
- Torino won the home game 1-0 against a strong Parma side, with an incredible performance of Buffon stopping the Yellow-Blacks on a single goal advantage (Ferrante). In the return leg, the Emilian team won 4-1 (Crespo's brace, Chiesa, and Ferrara - Maltagliati for Torino).
First leg – Stadio Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro), Milan - attendance: 69,717 - ref. Messina (Bergamo) – Milan – Parma (2-2)
In the first match, held in Milan, the Milan team quickly took the lead in the 15th minute with a goal from Bierhoff, playing a tough and intense game. Parma struggled significantly but managed to equalize at the beginning of the second half with a header from Crespo, following a precise cross
Second leg – Stadio Ennio Tardini, Parma - attendance: 22,403 - ref. Braschi (Prato) – Parma – Milan (1-2)
In the return match in Parma, Milan, still battling for the title with Lazio, was considered the underdog. Zaccheroni relied heavily on his bench, including the experienced Donadoni (who had returned to Milan in the winter transfer window), Ba, and Ganz. The Rossoneri's second-string players did not disappoint the Romagnolo coach, with Donadoni scoring a superb free-kick in the 44th minute to make it 1-0. Milan was immediately pegged back at the beginning of the second half by the ever-reliable Crespo, who equalized in the 52nd minute after dribbling past a somewhat stiff-legged Sala.
The Milan of the second string, buoyed by their good run in the league, continued to play with aggression and intensity. They had two clear chances, with Bierhoff hitting the crossbar in the 59th minute and Guglielminpietro being denied by a miraculous save from Buffon in the 64th minute. However, Milan eventually managed to score again, with Bierhoff rising above Thuram to head in a cross from Bergomi in the 71st minute, securing Milan their sixth Coppa del Re.
Coppa del Re Roll of Honor
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99 - International Cups - UEFA Super Cup, UEFA Champions League, and UEFA Confederation Cup
UEFA Super Cup Semifinal - İnönü Stadium, Istanbul – Chelsea – Lazio (0-2) – attendance: 19,588 – referee: Benkö (AUT)
Lazio, the reigning UEFA Confederation Cup champions, faced off against Chelsea, the previous season's UEFA Cup Winners' Cup champions. The Chelsea team, featuring Italian stars Vialli, Zola, Casiraghi, and Di Matteo, put up a tough fight against the Roman side. However, Lazio ultimately prevailed in the second half, thanks to the physical dominance of Vieri. He overpowered English defender Le Saux with an impressive header in the 59th minute. Lazio then doubled their lead with a beautiful free kick from Roberto Mancini in the 82nd minute.
UEFA Super Cup Final - İnönü Stadium, Istanbul – Real Madrid – Lazio (0-1) – attendance: 24,716 – referee: Batta (FRA)
In the final, Lazio faced off against the UEFA Champions League champions, Real Madrid. The Spanish team showed their athletic superiority in the first half, with Raul nearly scoring in the 32nd minute, stopped only by a desperate save from Marchegiani. Seedorf also came close, hitting the crossbar in the 40th minute. In the second half, Lazio emerged stronger, with standout performances from Nedved and Conceiçao. This pressure led to Hierro fouling Nedved in the penalty area in the 82nd minute. Mancini took the penalty, successfully outmaneuvering Madrid's goalkeeper Illgner to secure the UEFA Super Cup for Lazio.
UEFA Champions League: Ambrosiana, Juventus, and Lazio
Group Stage
As per the new UEFA Champions League reform, the three teams were sorted into the Group stages, with Lazio and Ambrosiana in the First Tier, being assigned respectively to the B and C groups, and Juventus to D Group, being into the Third Tier.
In the Round B, Lazio ended third with 6 points, achieving three victories (two against NK Zagreb and one with Galatasaray), while losing all the games with Athletic Bilbao and the away game in Istanbul against the Turks.
In the Round C, Ambrosiana closed the stage at the second place, behind Metz, with 7 points, coming from two wins against Rosenborg, one against Metz, a tie with Club Brugge, while losing to the latter and the home game against Metz, decisive for the first place in the round.
In the Round D, Juventus won the round with 8 points, winning all the games except the two losses against Barcelona.
Knockout Stage
Ambrosiana met Manchester United in the Round of 16, losing the home game 1-2 (a brace by United's Yorke, and a Djorkaeff's goal) and the return game in Manchester 1-0 (Scholes), ending eliminated.
Juventus had a bit of more luck in the draw, winning 1-3 the away game against Grasshopper in the Round of 16 (F. Inzaghi, Zidane, and Birindelli for the Italians, Cabanas for the Swiss), then conceding a 1-2 defeat in Turin (Tikva and Tararache for the Swiss, the usual F. Inzaghi for the Italians). The luck of Juventus continued in the Quarterfinals, when they met again Real Madrid, the team that defeated them in the previous season's UCL final. Juve won 2-1 at home (F. Inzaghi and Conte for Juve, Morientes for Real Madrid), losing 2-1 the regular fixture at Bernabeu (Raul and Seedorf for the Madrid team, Costacurta for the Torinese) going to the extra-time. There, Filippo Inzaghi had an amazing moment, scoring two goals in three minutes, putting the game on a 2-3 for Juve, allowing them to pass to the Semifinals.
In the Semifinals, Juve met Manchester United, with the two teams drawing 1-1 at the Old Trafford, after Juventus went ahead at minute 25th with Conte, with Giggs equalizing in the injury time (94th). In the return leg in Turin, Juventus again scored first with F. Inzaghi at minute 6th and going for a brace at minute 11th, with Juventus ahead 2-0. Unfortunately for Juventus, United had still the strength to settle the score on 2-1 with Keane at minute 24th and Yorke at minute 34th. United was already qualified with the 2-2 thanks to the away goal rule, but managed to win the game with Andy Cole scoring the 2-3 at the 83rd minute.
Final . Camp Nou, Barcelona - Manchester United - Benfica (2-1) - attendance: 90,245 - referee: Collina (ITA)
The other finalist, besides United, was Portugal's Benfica, a complete outsider, like the strong Spartak Moskva, carried by the young striker Shevchenko to an astonishing semifinal stage. In the final, the game was completely one-sided, with the English storming poor Preud'homme's area with continuous shots, leading the old Belgian goalkeeper to try to stop the tide. United finally achieved to score with Sheringham, just a few minutes after he substituted Blomqvist, at minute 72nd. United looked like in control, until a rapid counterattack delivered the equalizer to Benfica at minute 86th, with Nuno Gomes. United charged upfront again, with the latecomer Ole Gunnar Solskjær scoring the final 2-1 at minute 93rd, in full injury time, delivering United with their second Champions League, 31 years after their first.
UEFA Champions League Roll of Honor
UEFA Confederation Cup: Udinese, Capitolina, Parma, and Firenze
Group Stage
All the Italian clubs passed the Group Stage at the first place of their respective rounds
Knockout stage
Round of 16
Capitolina won 1-0 at home against Zurich (Totti's penalty) and tied 2-2 in Switzerland (Tommasi and Zago for the Italians, Fischer and Sant'Anna for the Swiss).
Parma tied 1-1 in Glasgow against Rangers (Chiesa for the Italians, Johansson for the Scots) and won 3-1 at the Tardini stadium (D. Baggio, Crespo, and Figo, answered by Van Bronckhorst).
Firenze tied the home game 2-2 against Olympique Marseille (Batistuta's brace and Maurice and Issa for the Provençals), but lost 1-0 away thanks to a Dugarry late goal.
In the Round of 16, Udinese faltered against Real Betis, losing the first leg away game 4-1 in Seville (Amoroso for the Friulians, Perez's hat trick and Fernando for the Andalusian team) and winning only 1-0 the home game (Poggi).
Quarterfinals
Capitolina lost both games against Atletico Madrid 2-1: Josè Mari and Roberto for the Colchoneros and Tommasi for the Romans at the Vicente Calderon, while in the return leg, Delvecchio's early goal was overcome by Aguilera and Roberto.
Parma smashed Hajduk in the return leg, after having lost 2-1 at the Poljud (Vučko's brace for the hosts, Balbo for the guests), they won 6-0 in Parma (Crespo's brace, Chiesa's brace, Sensini, and Balbo).
Semifinals
Parma won 1-3 the first leg at the Vicente Calderon against Atletico (Chiesa's brace and Crespo for the Italians, Juninho on penalty for the Colchoneros). In the return leg, Parma went ahead with Balbo, to be then reached by Roberto, and then going on the final 2-1 thanks to Chiesa, qualifying to the Final against Olympique Marseille.
Final . Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow - Olympique Marseille - Parma (0-3) - attendance: 60,899 - referee: Dallas (SCO)
The first 25 minutes saw a cautious Marseille side play much of their football in their own half, only to knock it long to their isolated frontmen Robert Pires and Florian
Maurice. Following such an occasion, Sensini hit a long ball forward towards Diego Fuser, whose headed flick-on looked not to be dangerous until a lazy headed backpass from the experienced Laurent Blanc gifted Hernán Crespo one-on-one with the keeper; the Argentine coolly lobbed Stéphane Porato with his first touch to give Parma the lead after 26 minutes.
Ten minutes later, as the Italians continued to dominate the match, a Parma attack twice looked to have been ended by Marseille's defence, but the ball found Lilian Thuram in an advanced right-back position on both occasions. On the second occasion, Thuram was able to slide in to find Diego Fuser five yards from the byline and just onside. He whipped in a deep cross, and Dino Baggio directed his header past Marseille's goalkeeper into the net to double Parma's advantage.
Five minutes before the hour mark, Thuram surged forward down the right before giving the ball to Boghossian outside him. The latter, chipped the ball into the penalty area with a ball looking to be destined for Crespo's boot, a fine dummy duped the Marseille's defence and gave Enrico Chiesa the opportunity to volley home emphatically from 12 yards to make it 3–0 and seal a Parma victory. The end of the game saw Parma control the game and keep their lead on the scoreboard against a valiant but dominated Marseille team.
UEFA Confederation Cup Roll of Honor
Lazio, the reigning UEFA Confederation Cup champions, faced off against Chelsea, the previous season's UEFA Cup Winners' Cup champions. The Chelsea team, featuring Italian stars Vialli, Zola, Casiraghi, and Di Matteo, put up a tough fight against the Roman side. However, Lazio ultimately prevailed in the second half, thanks to the physical dominance of Vieri. He overpowered English defender Le Saux with an impressive header in the 59th minute. Lazio then doubled their lead with a beautiful free kick from Roberto Mancini in the 82nd minute.
UEFA Super Cup Final - İnönü Stadium, Istanbul – Real Madrid – Lazio (0-1) – attendance: 24,716 – referee: Batta (FRA)
In the final, Lazio faced off against the UEFA Champions League champions, Real Madrid. The Spanish team showed their athletic superiority in the first half, with Raul nearly scoring in the 32nd minute, stopped only by a desperate save from Marchegiani. Seedorf also came close, hitting the crossbar in the 40th minute. In the second half, Lazio emerged stronger, with standout performances from Nedved and Conceiçao. This pressure led to Hierro fouling Nedved in the penalty area in the 82nd minute. Mancini took the penalty, successfully outmaneuvering Madrid's goalkeeper Illgner to secure the UEFA Super Cup for Lazio.
UEFA Champions League: Ambrosiana, Juventus, and Lazio
Group Stage
As per the new UEFA Champions League reform, the three teams were sorted into the Group stages, with Lazio and Ambrosiana in the First Tier, being assigned respectively to the B and C groups, and Juventus to D Group, being into the Third Tier.
In the Round B, Lazio ended third with 6 points, achieving three victories (two against NK Zagreb and one with Galatasaray), while losing all the games with Athletic Bilbao and the away game in Istanbul against the Turks.
In the Round C, Ambrosiana closed the stage at the second place, behind Metz, with 7 points, coming from two wins against Rosenborg, one against Metz, a tie with Club Brugge, while losing to the latter and the home game against Metz, decisive for the first place in the round.
In the Round D, Juventus won the round with 8 points, winning all the games except the two losses against Barcelona.
Knockout Stage
Ambrosiana met Manchester United in the Round of 16, losing the home game 1-2 (a brace by United's Yorke, and a Djorkaeff's goal) and the return game in Manchester 1-0 (Scholes), ending eliminated.
Juventus had a bit of more luck in the draw, winning 1-3 the away game against Grasshopper in the Round of 16 (F. Inzaghi, Zidane, and Birindelli for the Italians, Cabanas for the Swiss), then conceding a 1-2 defeat in Turin (Tikva and Tararache for the Swiss, the usual F. Inzaghi for the Italians). The luck of Juventus continued in the Quarterfinals, when they met again Real Madrid, the team that defeated them in the previous season's UCL final. Juve won 2-1 at home (F. Inzaghi and Conte for Juve, Morientes for Real Madrid), losing 2-1 the regular fixture at Bernabeu (Raul and Seedorf for the Madrid team, Costacurta for the Torinese) going to the extra-time. There, Filippo Inzaghi had an amazing moment, scoring two goals in three minutes, putting the game on a 2-3 for Juve, allowing them to pass to the Semifinals.
In the Semifinals, Juve met Manchester United, with the two teams drawing 1-1 at the Old Trafford, after Juventus went ahead at minute 25th with Conte, with Giggs equalizing in the injury time (94th). In the return leg in Turin, Juventus again scored first with F. Inzaghi at minute 6th and going for a brace at minute 11th, with Juventus ahead 2-0. Unfortunately for Juventus, United had still the strength to settle the score on 2-1 with Keane at minute 24th and Yorke at minute 34th. United was already qualified with the 2-2 thanks to the away goal rule, but managed to win the game with Andy Cole scoring the 2-3 at the 83rd minute.
Final . Camp Nou, Barcelona - Manchester United - Benfica (2-1) - attendance: 90,245 - referee: Collina (ITA)
UEFA Champions League Roll of Honor
UEFA Confederation Cup: Udinese, Capitolina, Parma, and Firenze
Group Stage
All the Italian clubs passed the Group Stage at the first place of their respective rounds
Knockout stage
Round of 16
Capitolina won 1-0 at home against Zurich (Totti's penalty) and tied 2-2 in Switzerland (Tommasi and Zago for the Italians, Fischer and Sant'Anna for the Swiss).
Parma tied 1-1 in Glasgow against Rangers (Chiesa for the Italians, Johansson for the Scots) and won 3-1 at the Tardini stadium (D. Baggio, Crespo, and Figo, answered by Van Bronckhorst).
Firenze tied the home game 2-2 against Olympique Marseille (Batistuta's brace and Maurice and Issa for the Provençals), but lost 1-0 away thanks to a Dugarry late goal.
In the Round of 16, Udinese faltered against Real Betis, losing the first leg away game 4-1 in Seville (Amoroso for the Friulians, Perez's hat trick and Fernando for the Andalusian team) and winning only 1-0 the home game (Poggi).
Quarterfinals
Capitolina lost both games against Atletico Madrid 2-1: Josè Mari and Roberto for the Colchoneros and Tommasi for the Romans at the Vicente Calderon, while in the return leg, Delvecchio's early goal was overcome by Aguilera and Roberto.
Parma smashed Hajduk in the return leg, after having lost 2-1 at the Poljud (Vučko's brace for the hosts, Balbo for the guests), they won 6-0 in Parma (Crespo's brace, Chiesa's brace, Sensini, and Balbo).
Semifinals
Parma won 1-3 the first leg at the Vicente Calderon against Atletico (Chiesa's brace and Crespo for the Italians, Juninho on penalty for the Colchoneros). In the return leg, Parma went ahead with Balbo, to be then reached by Roberto, and then going on the final 2-1 thanks to Chiesa, qualifying to the Final against Olympique Marseille.
Final . Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow - Olympique Marseille - Parma (0-3) - attendance: 60,899 - referee: Dallas (SCO)
The first 25 minutes saw a cautious Marseille side play much of their football in their own half, only to knock it long to their isolated frontmen Robert Pires and Florian
Ten minutes later, as the Italians continued to dominate the match, a Parma attack twice looked to have been ended by Marseille's defence, but the ball found Lilian Thuram in an advanced right-back position on both occasions. On the second occasion, Thuram was able to slide in to find Diego Fuser five yards from the byline and just onside. He whipped in a deep cross, and Dino Baggio directed his header past Marseille's goalkeeper into the net to double Parma's advantage.
Five minutes before the hour mark, Thuram surged forward down the right before giving the ball to Boghossian outside him. The latter, chipped the ball into the penalty area with a ball looking to be destined for Crespo's boot, a fine dummy duped the Marseille's defence and gave Enrico Chiesa the opportunity to volley home emphatically from 12 yards to make it 3–0 and seal a Parma victory. The end of the game saw Parma control the game and keep their lead on the scoreboard against a valiant but dominated Marseille team.
UEFA Confederation Cup Roll of Honor
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99 - International Cups - UEFA Cup Winners' Cup and UEFA Challenge Cup
UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup – Milan
Milan did a perfect path to the Final, having substituted Lazio (that opted to participate in the UEFA Champions League, freeing the berth for Coppa del Re runner up).
In the Round of 32, the Rossoneri tied the away game in Lausanne 2-2 (Weah's brace for Milan, Celestini's brace for the hosts) and won 3-0 the home game with Ganz, Albertini, and Maldini scoring.
In the Round of 16, the Rossoneri closed the qualification in the home game against Partizan with an imperious 5-0 win (Bierhoff's brace, Leonardo, Albertini, Guglielminpietro, and Ganz). In the return, Milan's second lines won anyway 0-1 with a goal by Coco.
In the Quarterfinals, Milan had a tough time against the Greeks of Panionios, winning 4-2 the home game (for long time settled on a 2-2 score) in the late minutes. The goals for Milan were a Bierhoff's hat trick and a goal by Ba. The Greeks goals came from Kafalis and Fyssas. In the return game, the Italians tied the game on a 3-3 with a late equalized by Weah, following Panionios' lead by 3-0 (Sapountzis, Robins, and Haylock) and the following recovery of Milan (Bierhoff, Leonardo on penalty, and the aforementioned Weah).
The Semifinal put Milan against the strong Lokomotiv Moskva, with the Milanese and the Muscovites tying 3-3 the first leg in Moscow (Bierhoff, Weah, and Guglielminpietro for the Italian side, Bulykin and Janashia's brace for the Russian). In the return leg, Ganz scored a hat trick for Milan, and the Russians achieved a single goal by Chugainov. Thus, the Milanese reached the final against Mallorca.
Final - Villa Park, Birmingham - Milan - Mallorca (5-1) - attendance: 33,021- referee: Benkö (AUT)
The Milanese were facing the tournament's revelation, the Spanish side Mallorca. The match began with a quick aggression by
Zaccheroni's Milan, who immediately found the lead in the seventh minute with Bierhoff, who scored from a precise cross from Helveg with a header. However, the Spaniards had the strength to immediately reach the equalizer in the 11th minute with Dani, who finished a beautiful cross from Jovan Stankovic into the net with a volley. A long-range shot from Boban was saved by Roa, while a Mallorca free-kick taken by Jovan Stanković passed through the Milan penalty area without anyone touching the ball. A bicycle kick by Milan striker George Weah, which Roa saved, was the last chance before the first half came to an end with the scores at 1–1.
The game continued to be wide open in the second half, at least until Weah came to the fore: in the 59th minute, the Liberian wreaked havoc in the Majorcan ranks, dribbling through five players and arriving in the box, where, with a simple side pass he served Guglielminpietro, who discharged a powerful shot into the net for Milan's new lead. Weah made himself the protagonist again in the 62nd minute, when, with great astuteness he got rid of Siviero's marking, to finish a Helveg cross with a flat right footer for the 3-1 Rossoneri lead. Mallorca disbanded in the next few minutes, ending up in a merry-go-round of Rossoneri shots in the mirror, saved only by a great performance by Roa. Unfortunately for the Spaniards, Milan continued to play, with even more verve, after the substitutions. The always goal-hungry Ganz then scored in the 81st minute, about three minutes after his entrance in Bierhoff's place, while to close the score on a round 5-1 came central defender Luigi Sala in the 88th minute, on the development of a corner kick taken by Leonardo. Thus, Milan won their third UEFA Cup Winners' Cup, 26 years after the last one.
UEFA Cup Winners' Cup Roll of Honor
UEFA Challenge Cup: Andrea Doria and Bologna
Both Doria and Bologna entered the new UEFA Challenge Cup starting from the Round of 32.
In the Round of 32, Doria smashed Harelbeke with a 0-1 away win (Protti) and a 3-0 home win (Laigle's brace and Protti). Bologna instead won 2-0 the home game (Signori and Paramatti), but lost the return game 3-1, qualifying thanks to Kolyvanov's early score.
Doria then qualified thanks to the away goal rule with Twente, having a scoreless draw at home and 2-2 tie in the Netherlands. Doria's scorer were Pecchia and Palmieri. Bologna faced the South London team of Crystal Palace, winning 0-3 away (Kolyvanov, Fontolan, and Signori), while losing 2-3 at home (Signori's brace for the Emilians).
In the Quarterfinal, Doria tied the home game in Genoa and traveled to Bastia, in a game with plenty of hooliganism incidents between the away Ligurian fans and the local Corsican ultras. The match prosecuted with a 0-0 even in the Extra Time. At the penalties, the goal of Casanova sent the Furiani stadium in paradise. Bologna tied the away game against Samsunspor 2-2 (Signori's brace) and painstakingly won 3-2 the home game (Binotto, Andersson, and Nervo scoring for the Bolognese).
In the Semifinals, Bologna met the Corsican team of Bastia, with a first leg 1-1 draw in Bologna (Signori for the Bolognesi, Siljak for the Corsicans). In a match that still had many episodes of hooliganism and in the madhouse of Furiani, Bologna crumbled to a net 3-0 defeat (Siljak's brace and Jurietti).
Final - Estadio Mestalla, Valencia - Ruch Chorzow - Bastia (0-2) - attendance: 24,158 - referee: Nilsson (SWE)
The Poles and Corsicans faced each other in Valencia, which was effectively stormed by the Turchini supporters, with a movement of nearly 15,000 Corsicans between islanders and the diaspora. In front of this huge crowd, Pasqualetti's team gave a great performance, going ahead with the usual Jurietti in the 24th minute and doubling in the second half with Née in the 71st minute. The Corsican Turchini then became the first UEFA Challenge Cup champions, qualifying along with Bologna, Ruch Chorzow and Borussia Koenigsberg for the next UEFA Confederation Cup in 1999/2000.
UEFA Challenge Cup Roll of Honor
Milan did a perfect path to the Final, having substituted Lazio (that opted to participate in the UEFA Champions League, freeing the berth for Coppa del Re runner up).
In the Round of 32, the Rossoneri tied the away game in Lausanne 2-2 (Weah's brace for Milan, Celestini's brace for the hosts) and won 3-0 the home game with Ganz, Albertini, and Maldini scoring.
In the Round of 16, the Rossoneri closed the qualification in the home game against Partizan with an imperious 5-0 win (Bierhoff's brace, Leonardo, Albertini, Guglielminpietro, and Ganz). In the return, Milan's second lines won anyway 0-1 with a goal by Coco.
In the Quarterfinals, Milan had a tough time against the Greeks of Panionios, winning 4-2 the home game (for long time settled on a 2-2 score) in the late minutes. The goals for Milan were a Bierhoff's hat trick and a goal by Ba. The Greeks goals came from Kafalis and Fyssas. In the return game, the Italians tied the game on a 3-3 with a late equalized by Weah, following Panionios' lead by 3-0 (Sapountzis, Robins, and Haylock) and the following recovery of Milan (Bierhoff, Leonardo on penalty, and the aforementioned Weah).
The Semifinal put Milan against the strong Lokomotiv Moskva, with the Milanese and the Muscovites tying 3-3 the first leg in Moscow (Bierhoff, Weah, and Guglielminpietro for the Italian side, Bulykin and Janashia's brace for the Russian). In the return leg, Ganz scored a hat trick for Milan, and the Russians achieved a single goal by Chugainov. Thus, the Milanese reached the final against Mallorca.
Final - Villa Park, Birmingham - Milan - Mallorca (5-1) - attendance: 33,021- referee: Benkö (AUT)
The Milanese were facing the tournament's revelation, the Spanish side Mallorca. The match began with a quick aggression by
The game continued to be wide open in the second half, at least until Weah came to the fore: in the 59th minute, the Liberian wreaked havoc in the Majorcan ranks, dribbling through five players and arriving in the box, where, with a simple side pass he served Guglielminpietro, who discharged a powerful shot into the net for Milan's new lead. Weah made himself the protagonist again in the 62nd minute, when, with great astuteness he got rid of Siviero's marking, to finish a Helveg cross with a flat right footer for the 3-1 Rossoneri lead. Mallorca disbanded in the next few minutes, ending up in a merry-go-round of Rossoneri shots in the mirror, saved only by a great performance by Roa. Unfortunately for the Spaniards, Milan continued to play, with even more verve, after the substitutions. The always goal-hungry Ganz then scored in the 81st minute, about three minutes after his entrance in Bierhoff's place, while to close the score on a round 5-1 came central defender Luigi Sala in the 88th minute, on the development of a corner kick taken by Leonardo. Thus, Milan won their third UEFA Cup Winners' Cup, 26 years after the last one.
UEFA Cup Winners' Cup Roll of Honor
UEFA Challenge Cup: Andrea Doria and Bologna
In the Round of 32, Doria smashed Harelbeke with a 0-1 away win (Protti) and a 3-0 home win (Laigle's brace and Protti). Bologna instead won 2-0 the home game (Signori and Paramatti), but lost the return game 3-1, qualifying thanks to Kolyvanov's early score.
Doria then qualified thanks to the away goal rule with Twente, having a scoreless draw at home and 2-2 tie in the Netherlands. Doria's scorer were Pecchia and Palmieri. Bologna faced the South London team of Crystal Palace, winning 0-3 away (Kolyvanov, Fontolan, and Signori), while losing 2-3 at home (Signori's brace for the Emilians).
In the Quarterfinal, Doria tied the home game in Genoa and traveled to Bastia, in a game with plenty of hooliganism incidents between the away Ligurian fans and the local Corsican ultras. The match prosecuted with a 0-0 even in the Extra Time. At the penalties, the goal of Casanova sent the Furiani stadium in paradise. Bologna tied the away game against Samsunspor 2-2 (Signori's brace) and painstakingly won 3-2 the home game (Binotto, Andersson, and Nervo scoring for the Bolognese).
In the Semifinals, Bologna met the Corsican team of Bastia, with a first leg 1-1 draw in Bologna (Signori for the Bolognesi, Siljak for the Corsicans). In a match that still had many episodes of hooliganism and in the madhouse of Furiani, Bologna crumbled to a net 3-0 defeat (Siljak's brace and Jurietti).
Final - Estadio Mestalla, Valencia - Ruch Chorzow - Bastia (0-2) - attendance: 24,158 - referee: Nilsson (SWE)
UEFA Challenge Cup Roll of Honor
00 - Transfer market & 1999/2000 rosters
I've enlarged the roster analysis to 24 players - plenty of transfers this season! Underlined cells are the usual starting elevens
Any comment or remark? Who's the strongest?
Transfer Market
Lazio, the reigning champions of Italy, allowed Vieri (FW) to transfer to the Milan Checkers for over 90 billion Lire. Other departures included De la Peña (MF), who was loaned to Olympique Marseille after a mixed season. Alongside Vieri, Di Biagio (MF) also moved to Milan. Lazio's acquisitions included Veron (MF) from Andrea Doria, the experienced Sensini (DF/MF) from Parma, and Piacenza's revelation Simone Inzaghi (FW). In the opposite direction of Di Biagio came Argentine midfielder Simeone (MF) from Ambrosiana.
Milan, who had a thrilling end to the championship but came up short, confirmed Zaccheroni as head coach and secured Ukrainian striker Shevchenko (FW) from Spartak Moskva. The Rossoneri signed young and promising players from lower-tier teams, such as Gattuso (MF) from Salernitana and Zambrotta (DF/MF) from Liberty Bari, the latter choosing Milan over Juventus due to his childhood allegiance to the Rossoneri. Other arrivals included Spanish forward José Mari (FW), Brazilian midfielder Serginho (MF), experienced defenders Ayala (DF) and Chamot (DF), and midfield playmaker Giunti (MF) from Parma. Notable departures included the release of veteran Donadoni (MF), the loan of Ba (DF/MF) to Perugia, and the sale of Davids (MF) to Juventus.
Firenze, under Trapattoni, tried to strengthen their squad by rebuilding the attack with Mijatovic (FW), Chiesa (FW), and Balbo (FW) from Parma, replacing the temperamental Edmundo (MF) and the inconsistent Oliveira (FW).
Capitolina, under President Franco Sensi, convinced Fabio Capello to return to Italy and lead the team. The squad was bolstered with experienced goalkeeper Antonioli (GK), the enigmatic Japanese midfielder Nakata (MF), and striker Montella (FW) from relegated Genoa.
Parma, under new coach Malesani, experienced a decline after previous glories. Key departures included Sensini, Chiesa, Balbo, and Figo, who moved to Real Madrid. Replacements included the previous season's top scorer Marcio Amoroso (FW) and Walem (MF) from Udinese, Di Vaio (FW) from Lazio, and Ortega (SS) from Andrea Doria.
Ambrosiana underwent a squad overhaul, epitomized by the arrival of new coach Marcello Lippi. He brought with him from Juventus goalkeeper Peruzzi (GK) and loyalists like Jugovic (MF) and Paulo Sousa (MF). Other new signings included Panucci (DF) and Seedorf (MF) from Real Madrid, Ferron (GK) from Andrea Doria, Di Biagio (MF), and top scorer Vieri (FW) from Lazio. Among the many new additions, Cordoba (MF) stood out, and Recoba (SS) returned from his loan at Venezia.
Udinese entrusted their bench to Luigi Di Canio, promoting Fiore (MF) and Pizarro (MF) in midfield, replacing Amoroso (FW) with Muzzi (FW), and integrating prospects like De Sanctis (GK) and Sottil (DF).
Juventus also underwent significant changes, appointing Carlo Ancelotti as head coach amid much fan discontent due to his past with Capitolina and Milan. Replacing Peruzzi (GK) was Dutchman Van Der Sar (GK), and the disappointing Davids (MF) joined from Milan. From Udinese came strong winger Bachini (MF). Despite Ancelotti's opposition, French striker Henry (FW) was sold to Arsenal. Reinforcing the attack were Kovacevic (FW) and the enigmatic Esnaider (FW).
Bologna entrusted the team to Guidolin, bringing in experienced players like Pagliuca (GK) from Ambrosiana and promoting young talents like Ventola (FW) on loan from Ambrosiana, and Brazilians Zé Elias (MF) and Luciano (MF).
Venezia, which had been propelled by Uruguayan Recoba (SS) the previous year, had to cope without him. New coach Spalletti dealt with a significantly changed squad, especially in attack, with the arrival of Ganz (FW) and the promotion of young Budan (FW). Liberty lost its stars Ventola (FW), who went to Ambrosiana and was loaned to Bologna, and Zambrotta (MF), who moved to Milan.
Torino, under Mondonico, focused on defensive acquisitions, bringing in veterans like M. Bonomi, André Cruz, Mendez, and Galante. Cagliari and Andrea Doria changed their technical leadership, appointing Uruguayan Tabarez for the Sardinians and Gian Piero Ventura for the Genoese. Among the newly promoted teams, only Prandelli of Verona was confirmed as coach, while Cavasin joined Lecce, Colomba went to Reggio Calabria, and the experienced Carlo Mazzone took over at Perugia.
Any comment or remark? Who's the strongest?
Transfer Market
Lazio, the reigning champions of Italy, allowed Vieri (FW) to transfer to the Milan Checkers for over 90 billion Lire. Other departures included De la Peña (MF), who was loaned to Olympique Marseille after a mixed season. Alongside Vieri, Di Biagio (MF) also moved to Milan. Lazio's acquisitions included Veron (MF) from Andrea Doria, the experienced Sensini (DF/MF) from Parma, and Piacenza's revelation Simone Inzaghi (FW). In the opposite direction of Di Biagio came Argentine midfielder Simeone (MF) from Ambrosiana.
Milan, who had a thrilling end to the championship but came up short, confirmed Zaccheroni as head coach and secured Ukrainian striker Shevchenko (FW) from Spartak Moskva. The Rossoneri signed young and promising players from lower-tier teams, such as Gattuso (MF) from Salernitana and Zambrotta (DF/MF) from Liberty Bari, the latter choosing Milan over Juventus due to his childhood allegiance to the Rossoneri. Other arrivals included Spanish forward José Mari (FW), Brazilian midfielder Serginho (MF), experienced defenders Ayala (DF) and Chamot (DF), and midfield playmaker Giunti (MF) from Parma. Notable departures included the release of veteran Donadoni (MF), the loan of Ba (DF/MF) to Perugia, and the sale of Davids (MF) to Juventus.
Firenze, under Trapattoni, tried to strengthen their squad by rebuilding the attack with Mijatovic (FW), Chiesa (FW), and Balbo (FW) from Parma, replacing the temperamental Edmundo (MF) and the inconsistent Oliveira (FW).
Capitolina, under President Franco Sensi, convinced Fabio Capello to return to Italy and lead the team. The squad was bolstered with experienced goalkeeper Antonioli (GK), the enigmatic Japanese midfielder Nakata (MF), and striker Montella (FW) from relegated Genoa.
Parma, under new coach Malesani, experienced a decline after previous glories. Key departures included Sensini, Chiesa, Balbo, and Figo, who moved to Real Madrid. Replacements included the previous season's top scorer Marcio Amoroso (FW) and Walem (MF) from Udinese, Di Vaio (FW) from Lazio, and Ortega (SS) from Andrea Doria.
Ambrosiana underwent a squad overhaul, epitomized by the arrival of new coach Marcello Lippi. He brought with him from Juventus goalkeeper Peruzzi (GK) and loyalists like Jugovic (MF) and Paulo Sousa (MF). Other new signings included Panucci (DF) and Seedorf (MF) from Real Madrid, Ferron (GK) from Andrea Doria, Di Biagio (MF), and top scorer Vieri (FW) from Lazio. Among the many new additions, Cordoba (MF) stood out, and Recoba (SS) returned from his loan at Venezia.
Udinese entrusted their bench to Luigi Di Canio, promoting Fiore (MF) and Pizarro (MF) in midfield, replacing Amoroso (FW) with Muzzi (FW), and integrating prospects like De Sanctis (GK) and Sottil (DF).
Juventus also underwent significant changes, appointing Carlo Ancelotti as head coach amid much fan discontent due to his past with Capitolina and Milan. Replacing Peruzzi (GK) was Dutchman Van Der Sar (GK), and the disappointing Davids (MF) joined from Milan. From Udinese came strong winger Bachini (MF). Despite Ancelotti's opposition, French striker Henry (FW) was sold to Arsenal. Reinforcing the attack were Kovacevic (FW) and the enigmatic Esnaider (FW).
Bologna entrusted the team to Guidolin, bringing in experienced players like Pagliuca (GK) from Ambrosiana and promoting young talents like Ventola (FW) on loan from Ambrosiana, and Brazilians Zé Elias (MF) and Luciano (MF).
Venezia, which had been propelled by Uruguayan Recoba (SS) the previous year, had to cope without him. New coach Spalletti dealt with a significantly changed squad, especially in attack, with the arrival of Ganz (FW) and the promotion of young Budan (FW). Liberty lost its stars Ventola (FW), who went to Ambrosiana and was loaned to Bologna, and Zambrotta (MF), who moved to Milan.
Torino, under Mondonico, focused on defensive acquisitions, bringing in veterans like M. Bonomi, André Cruz, Mendez, and Galante. Cagliari and Andrea Doria changed their technical leadership, appointing Uruguayan Tabarez for the Sardinians and Gian Piero Ventura for the Genoese. Among the newly promoted teams, only Prandelli of Verona was confirmed as coach, while Cavasin joined Lecce, Colomba went to Reggio Calabria, and the experienced Carlo Mazzone took over at Perugia.
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Miki Miki Miki! Rapaić will always be a legend. He used to treat everyone in his village with beer during his early career.