Bologna 1-1 Roma

Bologna impressed against Roma on Saturday, earning a hard-fought draw. Erick Pulgar gave the rossoblù an early lead in the first half, but the score was cancelled out fifteen minutes from full-time.

Roberto Donadoni decided to go back to his regular formation 4-3-3 against Roma. Antonio Santurro came into the side as Antonio Mirante and Angelo da Costa both were out due to suspension and injury respectively. Filip Helander and Sebastien De Maio made up the central defence, whilst Godfred Donsah came into midfield at the expense of the fatigued Blerim Dzemaili. Last but not least, Federico Di Francesco came into the side at left wing.

What we learned:

Donadoni’s decision to return to three at the back was a very welcome one. Project three at the back has gone on for some time now, and although it did initially give Bologna some more defensive security, it also hampered their power going forward. Against Roma, with a front three of Simone Verdi, Rodrigo Palacio and Di Francesco, Roma were troubled time and time again, especially by the veteran who played as the main striker. Additionally, Bologna seemed much more secure in defence than what has been the case earlier in the season when utilizing the 4-3-3 formaiton. It therefore seems as the stint with three at the back has improved the team’s overall defensive shape.

Despite his age, Palacio is proving how good a played he is. When Bologna signed the veteran striker from Inter, it was met with some scepticism. His age meant that some questions arose regarding his physical abilities, but Palacio has proved the doubters wrong time and time again this season. Against Roma, Palacio was Bologna’s best player by far, causing havoc around Roma’s box. Donadoni has rotated a lot throughout the season up front, but with the Argentinian in this kind of form, there should be no question about who should start.

Antonio Santurro started his first ever Serie A game, as well as having never even played in Serie B. Early on in the game, Santurro got two crucial saves which set him of for a good first game for Bologna. He made many important saves throughout the game, with his quick reflexes standing out. Although he did struggle a bit with his command of the area and his decision making on when to come out for the ball, overall he can be very happy with his performance.

Best Rossoblù:

Rodrigo Palacio: Bologna’s best player by far against a strong Roma side. See above for details.

What’s next?

Bologna’s next game is away at Crotone next Sunday. After a period of games without a win, Bologna are in the need for three points in Calabria. With Bologna being the strongest team on paper, a win should definitely be achievable.

What did you think of the match? Who was your man of the match? Let us know in the comments below!