Bologna saw their five-game unbeaten run (W2, D3) halted with a 2-1 loss to Verona last Friday, potentially denting their already slim hopes of finishing seventh and qualifying for continental football. Despite that, manager Thiago Motta urged his side to “continue on the path” whilst he reportedly prepares to sit down to discuss a contract extension.
Getting back to winning ways will need Bologna to address their winless Serie A (SA) record (D4, L17) against Juventus that dates back to February 2011. Despite the possible low morale owing to that barren stretch, the Rossoblù could hold their own as they are unbeaten across four games (W2, D2) at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara whilst managing three clean sheets.
Juventus were knocked out of the Coppa Italia semis (L 2-1 on aggregate) by Inter Milan on Wednesday with the 1-0 loss making it three defeats without scoring across four competitive matches (D1). Coach Massimiliano Allegri urged his side to “roll their sleeves up” as, with the league title all but mathematically out of reach, the Old Lady only has the Europa League semis to salvage a trophy in 2022/23.
There’s still a lot to play for in the league as well as a top four spot isn’t yet guaranteed, whilst a new trial regarding their suspended 15-point deduction adds a new dimension to their season. The visitors will have to keep their end of the bargain regardless and need to halt a three-game losing sequence in the league, last losing more consecutive top-flight matches in April 1962. It’s no better on the road, with Juventus already losing six away matches this league campaign, their joint-most in a single top-flight campaign since 2009/10.
Players to watch: Musa Barrow has had an engaging sequence of four games for Bologna (G1, A3, YC1) with each of his goal contributions coming in wins. Meanwhile, Federico Chiesa’s wait for his first league goal of this campaign could be over, going by his personal record of four goals in the last two H2Hs.
Hot stat: Juventus have conceded a league-low one goal beyond the 75th minute this campaign.
