Half-Time Report: Juan Iturbe gives Roma lead over Empoli in Coppa Italia

A first-half finish from Juan Iturbe has given Roma a 1-0 half-time lead over Empoli in the Coppa Italia this evening, as Rudi Garcia's men go in search of a record-breaking 10th TIM Cup.

Roma went ahead after only five minutes when Iturbe was left with space inside the box, and he made no mistake with a cultured finish into the bottom-left corner.

Diego Laxalt looked to hit back for the visitors when he produced some good build-up play to find Riccardo Saponara, who could only guide his shot past the top corner of goal.

Empoli continued to try to work Lukasz Skorupski, this time as Francesco Tavano took aim from distance, only to see his drilled effort flash past the wrong side of the post.