Bologna’s long-awaited return to European football’s biggest stage ended in a goalless draw against Shakhtar Donetsk at the Stadio Dall’Ara. The Italian side, making their first Champions League appearance since 1964, showed promise but ultimately lacked the finishing touch to secure a victory in their group stage opener.
The match began dramatically under heavy rain, with Shakhtar awarded an early penalty after Stefan Posch fouled Eguinaldo. However, Bologna goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski rose to the occasion, denying Georgiy Sudakov from the spot to keep the hosts level.
As the game progressed, Bologna grew in confidence and created several opportunities. Santiago Castro came close with a diving header, while Dan Ndoye provided dangerous service from the wings. The home side’s best chance of the first half fell to Castro on his birthday, but Shakhtar keeper Dmytro Riznyk made a crucial save in a one-on-one situation.
The second half saw Bologna continue to press for a breakthrough. Giovanni Fabbian had a golden opportunity thwarted by another impressive Riznyk save from close range. Despite sustained pressure and some late chances, including a Thijs Dallinga header that went just wide, Bologna couldn’t find the decisive goal.
For Vincenzo Italiano’s side, the result marks a continuation of their early season struggles to secure wins. While the point gained is valuable in the competitive Group F, Bologna will rue their missed chances as they look ahead to tougher fixtures in the tournament.
Bologna (4-2-3-1): Skorupski; Posch, Beukema, Lucumì, Lykogiannis (78′ Miranda); Moro (65′ Pobega), Freuler; Orsolini (65′ Iling Jr), Fabbian (78′ Urbanski), Ndoye; Castro (65′ Dallinga)
Shakhtar Donetsk (4-3-3): Riznyk; Konoplya (40′ Tobias), Bondar, Matvienko, Pedro Henrique; Bondarenko (79′ Stepanenko), Kryskiv, Sudakov (79′ Marlon); Zubkov (79′ Traore), Sikan (33′ Newertton), Eguinaldo
