Bologna FC 1909 vs Borussia Dortmund betting prediction

Bologna FC 1909 will host Borussia Dortmund at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara in a pivotal UEFA Champions League encounter. Scheduled for 8 PM UK time, this match holds significant implications for both teams’ progression in the tournament. Bologna, currently positioned 33rd in the league phase with just 2 points, is eager to secure its first victory in the competition. In contrast, Borussia Dortmund sits at 9th place with 12 points, aiming to solidify their path to the knockout stages.

Team Analysis

Bologna FC 1909

Bologna has faced challenges in the Champions League this season, with their inexperience at this level becoming apparent. Their recent 0-0 draw against Benfica showcased a solid defensive performance, yet their offensive struggles persisted. Prior to this, Bologna secured a 3-1 victory over Monza and a 1-1 draw with Inter Milan, indicating an unbeaten streak in their last three matches across all competitions.

Key players for Bologna include defender Jhon Lucumí, who has contributed 1 goal, and midfielder Lewis Ferguson, who plays a pivotal role in orchestrating the midfield. However, the team will be without Michel Aebischer due to a hernia, as well as Nicolò Cambiaghi and Oussama El Azzouzi, impacting their squad depth.

Borussia Dortmund

Borussia Dortmund has exhibited inconsistency this season, with their Bundesliga form dipping despite strong performances in European competitions. Their recent 3-2 defeat to Barcelona highlighted defensive vulnerabilities, even as forward Serhou Guirassy netted a brace. This loss followed a 2-0 defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt and a 1-1 draw with RB Leipzig, leaving Dortmund winless in their last three matches across all competitions.

Serhou Guirassy, with 6 goals, remains a significant offensive threat, while Julian Brandt provides creativity in the midfield. Defensively, Nico Schlotterbeck is a key figure. The team will be without Niklas Süle, sidelined with an ankle injury, and Ramy Bensebaini, who is suspended.

Head-to-Head and Past Encounters

Historically, Borussia Dortmund has dominated this fixture, winning the last two encounters against Bologna. The most recent meeting in July 2021 resulted in a 3-0 victory for Dortmund, with goals from Erling Haaland and Marco Reus. Bologna’s last triumph over Dortmund dates back to 1964, underscoring their struggles in this matchup.

Prediction

Considering Borussia Dortmund’s superior form and European experience, they enter this match as favorites. Bologna’s injury concerns and lackluster home performances further tilt the advantage towards the visitors. A 3-1 victory for Borussia Dortmund is a plausible outcome.

Betting Tips

Both Teams to Score: Yes

• Both teams have exhibited defensive frailties, and Bologna’s attack has the potential to challenge Dortmund’s defense.

Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over

• Dortmund’s attacking prowess and Bologna’s quest for points suggest a high-scoring affair.

Anytime Goalscorer: Serhou Guirassy (Borussia Dortmund)

• Given his current form, Guirassy is likely to find the back of the net.

Hot Stat

Borussia Dortmund has scored in each of their last six Champions League matches, marking their longest scoring streak in the competition this season.

Possible Lineups

Bologna: Skorupski; Lykogiannis, Casale, Beukema, Holm; Moro, Freuler, Orsolini, Odgaard, Ndoye; Castro

Borussia Dortmund: Kobel; Ryerson, Anton, Schlotterbeck, Kabar; Can, Groß, Nmecha; Brandt, Bynoe-Gittens, Guirassy

Conclusion

This Champions League fixture is crucial for both teams. Bologna aims to secure their first win and improve their standing, while Borussia Dortmund seeks to regain momentum after recent setbacks. Fans can anticipate an engaging match with significant implications for the tournament’s progression.