As Sporting Lisbon prepares to host Bologna at the Estadio Jose Alvalade on Wednesday, the stakes are high for the Portuguese side, who are in dire need of a victory to secure their place in the Champions League knockout stages. Meanwhile, Bologna arrive with nothing to lose, having already been eliminated from the competition.
Sporting Lisbon’s European campaign began with promise, as they collected 10 points from their first four matches. However, a series of disappointing results has left them in a precarious position, currently sitting at 23rd in the standings. Their recent form has seen them suffer three consecutive defeats, including a surprising 2-1 loss to RB Leipzig last week. This downturn has put them at risk of slipping out of the top 24 teams in the competition.
A draw against Bologna could be enough to keep Sporting in contention for the playoffs, as it would eliminate both Dinamo Zagreb and Shakhtar Donetsk from surpassing them. However, for peace of mind and to ensure their advancement, a win is essential.
Sporting Lisbon’s domestic performance has been more encouraging, with a recent 2-0 victory over Nacional allowing them to maintain a six-point lead in the Primeira Liga. With 13 wins in 15 home games this season, they will be looking to leverage their home advantage against Bologna.
In contrast, Bologna’s European journey has been tumultuous. After a commendable win against Borussia Dortmund last week, they still face challenges in their group stage campaign. With only five points from seven matches, they have struggled to find consistency and will aim to play spoiler against Sporting.
Historically, Bologna hold an edge over Sporting Lisbon in their previous encounters. The Italian side won their only prior meeting in the 1998-99 UEFA Cup with an aggregate score of 4-1. This historical context adds an intriguing layer to Wednesday’s match as Sporting looks to turn the tide.
Sporting Lisbon will rely heavily on Viktor Gyokeres, their top scorer who was surprisingly benched during the Leipzig match but made an impact upon his introduction. His presence on the field is crucial for Sporting’s attacking strategy. However, they will be without Pedro Goncalves due to injury, along with other key players like Jerry St Juste and Nuno Santos.
Bologna will look to Vangelis Pavlidis, who has been a standout performer despite his team’s struggles. His goal-scoring ability will be vital as they aim to disrupt Sporting’s plans.
Team News
Sporting Lisbon face several injury concerns heading into the match. Alongside Goncalves’ absence, they will miss long-term injuries affecting St Juste and Quaresma. Franco Israel is expected to start in goal due to Rui Silva’s ineligibility for European play.
Bologna’s squad are also dealing with injuries and suspensions. Charalampos Lykogiannis is doubtful after being forced off during their last match against Empoli. Riccardo Orsolini will miss out due to a hamstring injury sustained in their win over Dortmund. Additionally, Remo Freuler is suspended following his yellow card in that match.
Expected Starting XIs
Sporting: Israel; Fresneda, Diomande, Goncalo Inacio, Quenda; Catamo, Morita, Hjulmand, Araujo; Trincao, Gyokeres
Bologna: Israel; Fresneda, Diomande, Goncalo Inacio, Quenda; Catamo, Morita, Hjulmand, Araujo; Trincao, Gyokeres
Match Prediction
Given Sporting’s strong home record and Bologna’s struggles on the road in this competition, a 2-0 victory for Sporting Lisbon seems plausible. With only one draw in their last 24 Champions League home games and Bologna playing merely for pride after their elimination, Sporting should feel confident about securing the points needed to advance.
Prediction: Sporting 2-0 Bologna
