Roma vs Bologna in the Europa League round of 16 promises a tense Italian derby: first leg at Dall’Ara on March 12, return at the Olimpico a week later. Betting note: Roma arrive as favourites after finding a clinical striker — punters might back a Roma win or Roma double chance, while “both teams to score” is plausible given derby intensity and Bologna’s improving form.
Roma vs Bologna: Europa League Round of 16 Draw Sets Up Italian Derby
The Europa League draw has paired Roma and Bologna in an all-Italian clash that feels more like a domestic derby than a continental tie. The first leg is scheduled for March 12 at Bologna’s Stadio Renato Dall’Ara, with the return at Rome’s Stadio Olimpico a week later. Bologna executive Marco Di Vaio reacted candidly after the draw in Nyon.
Match Dates and Venues
March 12 — Bologna (Dall’Ara): first leg A week later — Roma (Olimpico): return leg
Di Vaio: Respectful, Candid Reaction
Marco Di Vaio described Roma as “a great team” and admitted the tie will carry more of a domestic, emotional intensity than a typical European fixture. “Playing a derby in Europe is different; perhaps we would have preferred to avoid it, also from an emotional standpoint. But we know it will still be a great match,” he said, framing the clash as high-stakes and highly charged.
Bologna’s Form and European Ambitions
Di Vaio highlighted Bologna’s uptick in form after a difficult spell, saying recent improvement brings confidence for the season’s run-in. He stressed the club values European competition for its potential to accelerate growth, noting Bologna performed well in a challenging playoff group and have only lost to Aston Villa in Europe so far.
Roma’s Threat: Striker and Squad Quality
Bologna faces a side Di Vaio described as “one of the strongest teams in Italy,” pointing to Roma’s recent offensive reinforcement. With Roma appearing to have found the striker they were missing, Bologna warns it will not be intimidated and will approach the tie “with our heads held high.”
Betting Implications and Tactical Outlook
This tie combines derby emotion with European stakes, suggesting an open, competitive affair. Roma’s improved attack makes them favourites for match-winner markets or a Roma double-chance.
Massara reacts to Roma’s Europa League draw with Bologna: “It’s going to be a fascinating match-up.”
For value bettors, consider both-teams-to-score and handicap markets: Bologna’s confidence boost and the derby atmosphere increase the likelihood of goals at both ends. Monitor team news and confirmed lineups before placing wagers.
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