Bologna have blasted the refereeing after a 1-1 Europa League draw with Roma, claiming unpunished fouls before Lorenzo Pellegrini’s equaliser. Betting angle: expect caution on card markets — punters may lean toward under on total bookings if officials remain permissive, and consider both teams to score again ahead of a tight second leg at the Stadio Olimpico.
Bologna fume at refereeing after 1-1 Europa League stalemate with Roma
Italiano and Castro question officiating decisions
Bologna coach Vincenzo Italiano and midfielder Santiago Castro criticised the referee after their 1-1 Europa League draw with Roma, arguing there was a foul in the build-up to Lorenzo Pellegrini’s equaliser. The visitors had taken the lead through Federico Bernardeschi early in the second half, but Malen’s involvement in the play that led to Pellegrini’s strike sparked protests from the home side.
Italiano complained that Remo Freuler was impeded by Donyell Malen and that the referee was too permissive overall, singling out Evan Ndicka for pulling shirts and holding Castro. “If he had been booked, perhaps it would’ve allowed Castro a little more freedom to actually play,” Italiano said.
Castro added that he felt he endured several fouls without receiving protection from the officials and suggested the lack of cards affected Bologna’s ability to control the game after taking the lead.
VAR review and officiating background
The match featured a lengthy VAR check before Pellegrini’s goal was allowed to stand. The referee was Sven Jablonski, with Bastian Dankert operating as VAR — an officiating team Bologna felt applied different standards to those they face domestically.
Match context and what’s next
With the tie finely poised at 1-1, the second leg at the Stadio Olimpico next Thursday will be decisive. Bologna will feel aggrieved they did not hold on to their lead, while Roma will travel home satisfied to have avoided defeat.
Betting implications
Bettors should note the clubs’ public complaints about officiating.
Markets to consider:
- Cards market: with claims of lenient refereeing, backing under on total bookings could be sensible if the same officials oversee the return leg.
- Both teams to score: likely, given chances created and both sides’ attacking intent.
- Goals market: a cautious approach such as under 2.5 goals may appeal if referees clamp down or the tie becomes cagey.
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These angles hinge on whether UEFA appoints similar officials for the second leg and whether managers adjust tactics in response to the perceived refereeing approach.
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