The Europa League continues with an intriguing clash at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara, where Bologna will host Celtic on Thursday evening. Both sides are fighting for qualification to the Knockout Phase, and this encounter could prove decisive in shaping their European destiny. Bologna currently sit 13th in the League Phase standings, while Celtic occupy 24th place after six rounds. With both teams showing contrasting domestic and continental form, this fixture promises to deliver plenty of excitement and goals.

Bologna’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Bologna have experienced a mixed run of results in recent weeks. They come into this match after a 1-2 defeat against Fiorentina on January 18, continuing a difficult domestic spell. In their last five matches across all competitions, the Italian side have recorded just one win, one draw, and three defeats, averaging 1.2 goals scored and 2.0 conceded per game. Their defensive struggles are evident, having conceded at least one goal in each of their last 14 matches.

Despite their league inconsistencies, Bologna’s Europa League campaign has been far more encouraging. After losing their opening game to Aston Villa, they have remained unbeaten in their last five European fixtures (three wins and two draws), including a 2-1 victory over Celta Vigo on Matchday 6. At home, however, the Felsinians have found wins hard to come by, taking five points from three European home games (one win and two draws) but failing to win any of their last four matches at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara in all competitions.

In terms of personnel, Bologna are dealing with several absences. Federico Bernardeschi, their top scorer in the competition with three goals, remains sidelined with a collarbone injury. Defenders Jhon Lucumi and Martin Vitik are also unavailable, while Juan Miranda and Eivind Helland are suspended. On a positive note, Giovanni Fabbian and Jonathan Rowe impressed off the bench in the recent league defeat and could play a bigger role in this European tie.

Celtic’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Celtic approach this match in good spirits after a 0-2 victory over Auchinleck Talbot on January 18. The Scottish side have won three of their last five matches, losing two, with an average of 1.6 goals scored and 1.0 conceded per game. Their Europa League journey has been turbulent, but they remain in contention for qualification. The Hoops have scored in each of their last 14 away matches in the competition and have not drawn any of their last 17 games overall, highlighting their attacking intent and unpredictable nature.

Statistically, Celtic’s matches tend to produce goals. Over 1.5 goals have been scored in each of their last 22 Europa League fixtures, and both teams have found the net in their last 11 away games in the competition. They have also been quick starters, with over 0.5 goals scored in the first half of 20 of their last 22 Europa League matches. The visitors have won at half time in six of their last ten away fixtures, showing their ability to impose themselves early on.

On the personnel front, Celtic are missing several key players through injury, including Kelechi Iheanacho, Marcelo Saracchi, Alistair Johnston, Callum Osmand, Jota, and Cameron Carter-Vickers. Nevertheless, the team has found momentum under Martin O’Neill, winning their last three domestic matches without conceding. Benjamin Nygren has been particularly influential, contributing six goal involvements in his last six league appearances and sharing the team’s top scorer spot in the Europa League with Reo Hatete. Kasper Schmeichel is expected to return in goal, supported by a defensive trio of Kieran Tierney, Liam Scales, and Auston Trusty.

Bologna vs Celtic Analysis and Prediction

This encounter brings together two sides with very different trajectories. Bologna have struggled domestically but have shown resilience in Europe, while Celtic have rediscovered confidence under new management. The Italian side’s defensive vulnerabilities could be tested by a Celtic attack that has scored consistently on the road. Conversely, Bologna’s home advantage and attacking depth could trouble a Celtic defense that has occasionally looked fragile in continental competition.

Given the statistical trends, goals seem likely at both ends. Bologna have failed to keep a clean sheet in 14 consecutive matches, while Celtic’s last 11 away Europa League games have all seen both teams score. The Scottish side’s attacking form and Bologna’s need for points suggest an open and entertaining contest. Expect a fast-paced match with plenty of chances, especially in the first half, where Celtic have often been strong starters.

Bologna vs Celtic prediction by BetMines:
Both Teams To Score (Yes) with 55% probability.