Roma and Bologna are set to clash at Stadio Olimpico in a Europa League last-16 decider. The tie hangs in the balance after a 1-1 draw in the first leg. With both teams vying for a spot in the quarter-finals, only one Italian side will remain in the competition.
First-Leg Draw Sets the Stage
The first leg at Stadio Dall’Ara saw Roma come from behind to secure a draw. Lorenzo Pellegrini cancelled out Federico Bernardeschi’s opener after both teams had struck the woodwork. Despite being on the back foot for much of the match, Roma’s European campaign has been smooth so far.
Roma have a history in UEFA’s second-tier tournament, finishing as runners-up twice. They also lifted the Conference League trophy in 2022. Their coach, Gian Piero Gasperini, led Atalanta to Europa League glory less than two years ago.
Roma’s record against domestic rivals in Europe is mixed. They lost the UEFA Cup final to Inter Milan and exited the 2014-15 Europa League to Fiorentina, but eliminated AC Milan from the competition in 2024.
Roma’s Rocky Serie A Form
Roma’s Serie A form has dipped recently, jeopardising their Champions League qualification hopes. After drawing with Juventus, Gasperini’s side lost to Genoa and then suffered defeat against Como. Donyell Malen scored an early penalty against Como, but Wesley’s dismissal contributed to a 2-1 loss.
Bologna Seek Consistency
Bologna secured a Serie A victory last weekend, defeating Sassuolo thanks to Thijs Dallinga’s early goal. That win moved them up to eighth in the league. However, their domestic form has been inconsistent since November, with 11 league defeats – three more than last season.
After a poor mid-winter spell, Vincenzo Italiano’s team put together five consecutive wins before faltering again. Italiano’s side claimed the cup and competed in the Champions League last term, but they are now struggling to secure a third straight season in Europe.
The upcoming match will determine which Italian team progresses to face either Lille or Aston Villa in the Europa League quarter-finals.