The Italian Super Cup final promises to be a captivating encounter as Napoli and Bologna clash in Riyadh. Napoli secured their place first, triumphing 2-0 over Milan, while Bologna edged past Inter in a penalty shootout, setting up an exciting showdown.

For Bologna, this is a historic moment. It's their first-ever appearance in the competition, and the chance to win their second trophy in two years would cement their status as a top-tier Italian club.

Bologna's path to success has been methodical. Following a record-breaking finish with 72 points in Serie A last season, securing a Champions League spot, the club continued their rise by winning the Coppa Italia in the following campaign.

Now sitting sixth in Serie A, they are fighting for another title, reaffirming their place among Italy's elite.

Numbers, results and ambitions all point to Bologna's entry into the upper echelons of Italian football. At 20.00 CET on Monday evening, at Riyadh's Al-Awwal Park Stadium, Vincenzo Italiano's men will have the opportunity to prove it once more by claiming the Italian Super Cup.

One of the key figures in this pursuit is Riccardo Orsolini, affectionately known as Orsonaldo by the fans. As the team's captain, leader and emotional pillar, Orsolini arrives at this challenge with a point to prove. Despite his impressive form, one notable hurdle remains—his struggles against Napoli.

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Orsolini vs Napoli: A personal kryptonite

Orsolini has been a thorn in the side of many of Italy's top clubs. Against the big teams, he has consistently delivered. Inter, in particular, has felt his influence, with Orsolini scoring four goals and providing two assists in 15 encounters.

Other big clubs like Atalanta, Milan, Lazio, Roma and Juventus have also tasted his quality, with Orsolini scoring twice against each and assisting once.

However, there is one glaring exception: Napoli. In 13 encounters with the Azzurri, Orsolini has failed to score or assist. Despite his best efforts, Napoli remains his personal bogey team.

The head-to-head record is only slightly in Bologna's favour, with four wins, three draws and six losses. Even in their most recent encounter—an impressive 2-0 victory for Bologna—Orsolini couldn't find the back of the net or provide an assist.

For the Rossoblu captain, this final presents a unique opportunity: to finally overcome his Napoli curse and score against the one team that has always eluded him. With a potential second career trophy on the line, Orsolini is determined to make history.

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R. Orsolini

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