Bertotto gives Udinese the edge

By Paolo Menicucci

A late equaliser from Udinese Calcio defender Valerio Bertotto gave his side an important 1-1 draw in the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final against AS Roma at the Stadio Olimpico. The Giallorossi had taken the lead in the first half through French defender Philippe Mexes.

Totti return
Roma were again able to call on Francesco Totti, who is serving a five-match Serie A suspension, and the Giallorossi captain linked up well with Antonio Cassano in the early stages of the game. Cassano went close to breaking the deadlock when he headed a left-wing Totti free-kick just past the post, although David Di Michele shot over when well placed at the other end. It was the home side who took the lead eight minutes before half-time, however, Mexes outjumping Bertotto to head in Cassano's free-kick from close range.

Pressure pays off
However, Udinese started to control the game in the second half and, in the 72nd minute Di Michele deflected a low shot from Stefano Mauri just wide. Udinese's pressure was rewarded five minutes from time when Bertotto received a short pass from Pizarro outside the penalty area and beat Curci with a powerful right-foot shot.

Inter challenge
The two sides will meet again for the second leg on 18 May, while FC Internazionale Milano visit Cagliari Calcio on Thursday for the first leg of the second semi-final.