Bologna will feel relieved to have escaped with a 1-1 draw against Freiburg in their Europa League clash, after losing control of a game that started brightly for Vincenzo Italiano’s men.
The Rossoblù came out with intent, enjoying possession and pushing the German visitors back in the opening minutes.
Their early pressure won them a corner, but despite the promising tempo, clear-cut chances were hard to come by. Freiburg slowly found their rhythm, threatening through Matthias Ginter, who dragged an effort wide, and Philipp Lienhart, who sent a header over from a set piece.
Bologna’s backline looked unsteady as Freiburg carved out two quick chances, forcing goalkeeper Łukasz Skorupski into sharp saves.
But the breakthrough came at the other end on the half-hour mark. Nicolò Cambiaghi’s shot was parried by the Freiburg goalkeeper, and Riccardo Orsolini reacted fastest to bury the rebound, giving Bologna the lead. From there, Italiano’s side looked more assured and took their advantage into the break.
The second half told a very different story. Freiburg emerged stronger and were gifted a route back in the 56th minute when Santiago Castro handled in the box.
Junior Adamu calmly slotted home from the penalty spot, restoring parity. The incident sparked protests from Bologna, earning Skorupski a yellow card for dissent.
With momentum on their side, Freiburg pressed relentlessly. A wave of corners and attacks kept Bologna pinned back, with Skorupski again standing tall to deny substitute Derry Scherhant before Beste’s follow-up was smothered.
Italiano turned to his bench, introducing Federico Bernardeschi, Thijs Dallinga and Miranda to inject fresh energy, but the Rossoblù lacked creativity in the final third.
Jens Odgaard’s late attempt flew over the bar, their only real chance to reclaim the lead.
Freiburg looked the more dangerous side in the closing stages, yet Bologna clung on for a point. The draw leaves both teams level in the Europa League standings, a fair outcome but one that the Italian side may privately consider fortunate.
