Bologna’s aspirations took a hit following a 0-0 draw against Cagliari. The result, their first draw in 15 games, certifies what has been a disappointing season. According to Vincenzo Italiano, the season may already be over.
This match was seen as Bologna’s last opportunity to close the gap on Atalanta, who occupy seventh place. Atalanta remain six points ahead. Bologna failed to make a breakthrough, neither through Italiano’s initial choices nor with the introduction of attacking players during the second half. Cagliari secured a point, which serves their purpose.
Cagliari’s Defensive Effort Secures a Point
Cagliari’s point curbs their away form struggles, after three losses. They needed a point and secured it, even amidst some difficulties. Fabio Pisacane only made three substitutions, one of which was forced. Despite this, Cagliari defended stoutly, securing a result that brings them closer to safety with 37 points.
Cagliari’s 4-5-1 formation aimed to shut down the game. However, they also created opportunities for a surprise victory through Deiola, Esposito and Zé Pedro. The match was largely uneventful, with only a few moments of note, ultimately resulting in a fair draw.
Italiano’s Surprising Line-up Choices
Italiano made several changes, appearing to signal an end-of-season atmosphere. Pessina started in goal. The defence consisted of Lollo De Silvestri, Lucumi, Helland, and Miranda. The midfield featured Moro, Freluer and Sohm, with 11 friends and family members supporting Sohm in the stands, all wearing his shirt. The attack also saw surprises, with Odgaard leading the line instead of Castro, and Bernaderschi on the right ahead of Orsolini. Pisacane made minimal changes, with Dossena returning to the centre of defence alongside captain Mina, and Rodriguez on the bench. Sebastiano Esposito played as the central striker, flanked by Palestra and Folo.
A banner reading “Ciao Alex orgoglio bolognese” was displayed during a minute dedicated to a deceased champion. The weather was warm, with temperatures exceeding 20 degrees. Cagliari, supported by 447 fans, had a lively start, scoring in the 3rd minute from a scramble. However, Deiola was offside, confirmed by a lengthy VAR review.
Match Dynamics and Missed Opportunities
The match lacked excitement, with Cagliari defending in a 4-5-1 formation that transitioned to 4-3-3 in possession. Bologna were sluggish and made numerous errors in midfield through Moro and Freuler. In the 17th minute, Esposito set up Deiola, who missed a clear chance. Bologna’s first real opportunity came in the 26th minute when Berna forced Caprile into a save.
The home side increased their intensity, with Mina and Dossena containing Odgaard, who threatened in the 34th minute. Five minutes later, Deiola, who had been performing well in other areas, went down. Sulemana replaced him in the 42nd minute. The game picked up slightly, particularly with some technical moments from Dominguez. Following a good move by Palestra, Bologna countered through Odgaard to Berna, whose shot was blocked by Mina. In the 45th minute, Sebastiano Esposito forced a good save from Pessina.
Ultimately, the match concluded in a draw, a result that benefits Cagliari in their fight for survival, while leaving Bologna’s European hopes hanging by a thread.