Bologna travel to Roma for a 1-1 Europa League decider with Federico Bernardeschi singled out to steady a young squad; an injured first-choice keeper weakens Bologna. Punters: Roma are slight favourites for a narrow home win, while backing both teams to score or a Roma -0.5 Asian handicap could be sensible alternatives.
Di Vaio hails Bernardeschi as inspiration ahead of Roma return
Bologna sporting director Marco Di Vaio praised the club’s "wonderful journey" through the Europa League and identified veteran Federico Bernardeschi as a calming, inspirational presence for younger teammates ahead of tonight’s crucial second leg at the Stadio Olimpico.
"He has experience with Juventus in these types of matches, where he performed very well, and so he can inspire his teammates in the crucial moments of the game. Those who have played in them, like him and Freuler, can help the younger players handle the pressure. Roma are a strong team."
Tie delicately poised after 1-1 first leg
The round-of-16 clash is finely balanced after the 1-1 draw in Bologna, with a place in the Europa League quarter-final on the line. The winner will advance to face the victor of the Aston Villa versus Lille tie. Expect an intense, tactical battle as both sides weigh risk and reward in a one-off knockout atmosphere.
Stadio Olimpico memories and momentum
Bologna arrive at the Olimpico buoyed by recent history — it was here they beat Milan last season to lift the Coppa Italia, their first trophy in 51 years. Di Vaio acknowledged those fond memories but warned the players it’s "a completely different match" tonight, stressing the need to reproduce the focus and composure that saw them succeed at the same venue last year.
Team news: goalkeeper injury hands Ravaglia the gloves
Bologna head into the match off the back of a morale-boosting 1-0 Serie A win at local rivals Sassuolo, but they lost goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski to injury in that game. Federico Ravaglia is set to deputise between the posts for the second leg, a change that could influence how both teams approach the tie and factor into tactical and betting considerations.
Tactical outlook and what to watch
Expect Roma to press for control at home while Bologna look to absorb pressure and spring counter-attacks, leaning on experienced figures such as Bernardeschi and Freuler to manage key moments.
Bologna complain ‘referee too permissive’ with Roma in Europa League
With the first leg drawn, tight margins and set-piece moments may decide the tie; the combination of an away-goals-equal-legged draw and a changed goalkeeper for Bologna makes this a contest where small mistakes could be decisive.
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