Vincenzo Italiano, the strategist of Bologna, had no doubts in stating that his team “did enough over the two matches” to secure victory in the qualifying round of the Europa League against SK Brann. With a firm eye on the next stage, where they will face Roma or Freiburg, Italiano expressed his satisfaction despite the difficulties encountered in this second match.
Bologna took to the field after a narrow 1-0 victory in the first leg in Norway, but the tension was palpable when they learned during the warm-up that Fiorentina had squandered a 3-0 lead in the Conference League. This pressure did not immediately translate into confidence, as the start of the match showcased a determined and aggressive Brann team, which required spectacular saves from goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski and a crucial intervention from Remo Freuler on the goal line. However, the expulsion of Jacob Sorensen changed the course of the game, allowing Bologna to capitalize on their numerical advantage.
At the 70-minute mark, star Joao Mario finally shone, scoring the winning goal after a series of 13 corners. The highlight of this journey was almost accentuated by Benjamin Dominguez, who hit the crossbar in stoppage time, but the result was already sealed.
Italiano, reflecting on the match, highlighted: “The first 20 minutes were exactly what I expected, as Brann only had one result to seek, forcing them to come at us.” The coach also pointed out that Bologna could have capitalized better on the opportunities created by Rowe and Bernardeschi, but after the red card, the team knew how to adapt and maximize the situation. “Between the two matches, we did enough to deserve qualification,” he stated emphatically.
The focus now is clear: “Our goal was to stay in the cup competitions in March, and we succeeded in Europe, although unfortunately not in the Coppa Italia.” The pressure is even greater, given that Brann, on a break from their domestic league, was in top form for this clash.
Italiano also commented on the extra pressure his team faces with a tight schedule, acknowledging that the first match was crucial for Bologna’s success. “We knew Brann would be in good shape, especially with so many games for us. We played smartly in Norway.”
With qualification for the round of 16 of the Europa League secured, Bologna is eagerly awaiting the draw that will determine their next opponent, which could be SC Freiburg or fellow countrymen Roma. The anticipation is high, but the team is focused and determined.
Finally, Italiano defended Jens Odgaard, who has been seen as a marginal figure in the team, emphasizing: “It is unthinkable that Odgaard has been pushed to the fringes of the squad. He remains an important player for us, regardless of whether he is a starter or not.” And regarding Joao Mario, who has an introverted personality, the coach stressed: “He needs to start smiling more. He showed today why he was a regular at Porto and signed by Juventus, doing an excellent defensive job and scoring a goal.”
Bologna’s journey in the Europa League promises to remain exciting, and Italiano’s determination to see his team thrive is a driving force that should not be underestimated.
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