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Juventus Edge Empoli to secure Coppa Italia Quarterfinal Berth

Bianconeri Overcome Second-Tier Resistance

Juventus advanced to the quarterfinals of the Coppa Italia on Wednesday with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Serie B side Empoli. The Bianconeri, who have won the competition 14 times, were made to work hard for their win by a determined Empoli side.

Juventus took the lead twice in the first half through goals from Dusan Vlahovic and Weston McKennie, only to see Empoli equalize both times through Tommaso Baldanzi and Liam Henderson.

Vlahovic's Late Strike Earns Victory

The match looked set to go into extra time, but Vlahovic popped up with the winning goal in the 89th minute. The Serbian striker's close-range finish from a free kick proved to be the difference between the two sides.

Juventus will now face either Lazio or Bologna in the quarterfinals. The draw for the next round will be held on Friday.