Bologna, fresh from ending a 17-match winless streak against AC Milan in Serie A, are set to host 15th-placed Cagliari at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara in Sunday’s league fixture. The Rossoblu are riding high on confidence after their dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Milan, a result that propelled them into sixth place in the league standings, the final European qualification spot in Italy’s top flight. With their sights set on securing a fifth consecutive home win, Bologna will aim to consolidate their position against Cagliari, one of the division’s weakest traveling teams, in the 27th round of Serie A.
The victory over Milan was a historic moment for Bologna, marking their first league win against the Rossoneri in nine years. Their last triumph over Milan came in January 2016, when they secured a 1-0 victory at the San Siro. Thursday night’s win was even more significant as it ended a 23-year wait for a home victory against the Italian giants. Goals from Santiago Castro and Dan Ndoye sealed the three points, boosting Bologna’s hopes of qualifying for European competition next season. The result also underscored the team’s resilience and growing confidence under manager Vincenzo Italiano, who has transformed the side into a formidable force in Serie A.
With this victory, Bologna now occupy sixth place, which guarantees qualification for the playoff round of the UEFA Conference League. The Rossoblu are two points clear of seventh-placed Fiorentina and hold the head-to-head advantage over the Viola after their 1-0 win in December. A point against Cagliari would be enough to maintain their position, but Bologna will undoubtedly aim for all three points to close the gap on fourth-placed Juventus and fifth-placed Lazio, who are five points ahead. Juventus face Hellas Verona on Monday, while Lazio travel to Milan, presenting Bologna with an opportunity to gain ground on their rivals.
Bologna’s recent form at home has been nothing short of impressive. They have won their last four league matches at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara, defeating Monza (3-1), Como (2-0), Torino (3-2), and Milan (2-1). A victory against Cagliari would mark their fifth consecutive home win in Serie A, a feat they last achieved in 2023 when they secured six straight home victories between October and December. The team’s strong performances at home have been a cornerstone of their success this season, and the fans will be eager to see their side continue this trend on Sunday.
Since the start of 2025, Bologna have been in exceptional form, picking up 13 points from a possible 15 at home and accumulating 16 points overall in the league. Only Roma (20), Juventus (17), and Inter (17) have collected more points in this period. This impressive run has been fueled by a combination of tactical discipline, attacking flair, and a never-say-die attitude, qualities that were on full display in their comeback win against Milan. The Rossoblu’s ability to grind out results, even when faced with adversity, has been a key factor in their rise up the table.
Cagliari, on the other hand, arrive in Emilia-Romagna with a less-than-impressive away record. The Sardinians have struggled on the road this season, managing just two wins from their 12 away fixtures. With only 10 points collected away from home, Cagliari are level with promoted side Como and only better than Parma (eight points), Monza (seven points), and Venezia (four points). Their inability to secure positive results on their travels has been a major hindrance to their campaign, and they will need to improve significantly if they are to avoid being dragged into a relegation battle.
Despite their struggles, Cagliari are not in immediate danger of relegation, thanks in part to the poor form of 18th-placed Empoli, who are on a four-match losing streak. However, the Islanders are only four points clear of the relegation zone, with Lecce level on 25 points and Parma just two points behind in 17th. Every point will be crucial for Davide Nicola’s side as they look to secure their Serie A status for another season. A positive result against Bologna would go a long way in easing their fears, but history is not on their side.
Cagliari’s record against Bologna is far from inspiring, particularly at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara. The Sardinians have not won a Serie A match against Bologna since 2010, and their recent visits to Emilia-Romagna have been largely unsuccessful. They have lost eight of their last 11 matches against Bologna, including the most recent three. This poor run of form will undoubtedly weigh heavily on the minds of the players and fans as they prepare for Sunday’s clash.
For Bologna, the match represents an opportunity to continue their upward trajectory and strengthen their grip on a European qualification spot. The team’s recent performances have been a testament to the progress made under Vincenzo Italiano, who has instilled a winning mentality and a cohesive style of play. The Rossoblu’s ability to compete with and defeat some of the league’s top sides has been a highlight of their season, and they will be determined to maintain this momentum as the campaign enters its final stages.
Cagliari, meanwhile, will need to address their defensive frailties and find a way to be more effective in attack if they are to stand any chance of getting a result. Davide Nicola’s side have shown glimpses of quality this season, but their inconsistency, particularly away from home, has been a major issue. The Islanders will need to be at their very best to overcome a Bologna side that is full of confidence and playing in front of their passionate home supporters.
In conclusion, Sunday’s match promises to be an intriguing contest between two teams with contrasting objectives. Bologna will be aiming to continue their push for European qualification, while Cagliari will be desperate to secure points to move further away from the relegation zone. With Bologna’s impressive home form and Cagliari’s struggles on the road, the odds are stacked in favor of the Rossoblu. However, as is often the case in football, anything can happen, and Cagliari will be hoping to defy the odds and spring a surprise. The stage is set for an exciting encounter at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara, and fans of both teams will be eagerly anticipating the outcome.