Roma advances to the semifinals of the Italian Cup
With a penalty from the star Francesco Totti in the fifth minute of stoppage time, Roma defeated Cesena 2-1 and qualified for the semifinals of the Italian Cup, where they will face their classic rival, Lazio.
Cesena, the only second division team among the top eight in the tournament, made it more difficult for Roma than expected in the knockout stage. Roma is currently second in Serie A.
The Roman team finally took the lead in the 68th minute when Edin Dzeko was finally able to overcome the rival's goal after missing several opportunities to score.
VIDEO: @RomaSquare
FROM THE OLYMPIC STADIUM. Totti's dramatic penalty that qualifies Roma for the semifinals of the Cup. They will face Lazio. pic.twitter.com/Zb0dICjwi6
However, a collision in Roma's area between defender Kostas Manolas and goalkeeper Allison allowed Luca Garritano to equalize five minutes later.
When it seemed like the game was going into extra time, a foul by goalkeeper Federico Agliardi on Kevin Strootman gave Totti the opportunity to seal Roma's qualification with a penalty.
Roma's opponent in the semifinal will be Lazio, who obtained their ticket on Tuesday by defeating Inter Milan 2-1.
The other semifinal will be played between Napoli, who eliminated Fiorentina, and defending champions Juventus, who overcame Milan.
Quarterfinal results
AS ROMA - Cesena (2nd Division) 2-1
Inter Milan - LAZIO 0-2
NAPOLI - Fiorentina 1-0
JUVENTUS - AC Milan 2-1
Semifinals
Juventus - Napoli
Lazio - Roma