In a tense Champions League encounter at the Renato Dall’Ara stadium, Bologna’s search for their first goal in the competition continues as they succumbed to a late 1-0 defeat against AS Monaco. The match, characterized by disallowed goals and near misses, ultimately swung in favor of the visitors in the closing stages.
Bologna, who had managed just one point from their previous three European fixtures, made several changes to their lineup in hopes of altering their fortunes. However, they were without key players like Michel Aebischer, Martin Erlic, Nicolò Cambiaghi, and Oussama El Azzouzi.
The game saw both teams have goals disallowed. Monaco thought they had taken the lead through Wilfried Singo’s header from a corner, but VAR intervened due to a foul on Bologna goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski. Similarly, Bologna’s Santiago Castro had a goal ruled out for offside in the build-up.
Skorupski was in fine form throughout the match, making crucial saves to keep Bologna in contention. His most notable interventions came against Breel Embolo, whose powerful shot was tipped onto the post, and a strong save from Aleksandr Golovin’s free-kick.
As the match seemed destined for a goalless draw, Monaco struck in the final minutes. A corner from Golovin was flicked on by Embolo, allowing Thilo Kehrer to score from close range at the back post.
This result leaves Bologna still searching for their first Champions League goal and victory, while Monaco continues their impressive European campaign, building on their previous successes against Barcelona and Crvena Zvezda.
The defeat will be particularly frustrating for Bologna, who showed moments of promise but lacked the finishing touch. As the group stage progresses, they face an uphill battle to qualify for the knockout rounds, while Monaco strengthen their position as serious contenders in the group.
Goals: Kehrer 87 (M)
Bologna (4-2-3-1): Skorupski; Posch, Beukema, Lucumi, Miranda (92′ Odgaard); Freuler, Moro (46′ Pobega); Iling-Junior (68′ Orsolini), Fabbian (81′ Ferguson), Ndoye; Castro (68′ Dallinga).
Monaco (4-2-3-1): Majecki; Vanderson, Singo, Kehrer, Mawissa (78′ Caio Henrique); Magassa, Camara (78′ Matazo); Akliouche, Golovin, Ben Seghir (71′ Minamino); Embolo.
