Bologna ended their seven-month home win drought with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Lecce at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on Saturday. The match was highlighted by Riccardo Orsolini’s late winner and the emotional return of Lewis Ferguson from a serious knee injury.
The Rossoblu, who had been struggling for consistency this season, finally found their footing with a crucial three points. The win was especially significant given Bologna’s injury woes, with several key players sidelined.
The first half saw both teams create chances, with Lecce coming close through Santiago Pierotti and Nikola Krstovic. The visitors even had a goal disallowed when Hamza Rafia’s effort was ruled out due to a foul in the build-up.
Bologna had their opportunities too, with Remo Freuler missing a golden chance just before halftime. The home side continued to press in the second half, with Giovanni Fabbian testing Lecce goalkeeper Wladimiro Falcone.
The turning point came with the introduction of Lewis Ferguson, making his first appearance since rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament in April. The Scottish midfielder’s return seemed to energize the team, and he played a crucial role in the winning goal.
In the closing stages, Ferguson initiated the attack that led to Orsolini’s decisive header. The Italian winger met Juan Miranda’s cross with a glancing effort that found the far corner, securing Bologna’s victory and marking his third consecutive Serie A game with a goal.
The win provides a much-needed boost for Bologna as they look to climb the table, while Lecce will rue missed opportunities as they continue to battle in the lower half of the standings.
Goals: Orsolini 85 (B)
Bologna (4-2-3-1): Ravaglia; De Silvestri (82′ Posch), Lucumì, Beukema, Miranda; Moro (57′ Urbanski), Freuler (82′ Ferguson); Orsolini, Odgaard (57′ Dallinga), Ndoye; Castro (69′ Fabbian).
Lecce (4-2-3-1): Falcone, Guilbert (57′ Pelmard), Gaspar, Baschirotto, Gallo; Ramadani (87′ Rebic), Rafia (76′ Pierret); Dorgu (87′ Sansone), Pierotti, Banda (57′ Coulibaly); Krstovic. All: Gotti
