Key Takeaways:
- Lorenzo Pellegrini scored in the closing stages last night to earn AS Roma a 1-1 draw at Bologna in the UEFA Europa League last-16 first leg
- Federico Bernardeschi opened the scoring early in the second half with an angled finish for Bologna
- Bologna extended their unbeaten Europa League streak to 10 matches ahead of the return leg on 19 March
First Half: Stalemate Dominated by Fouls
The opening 45 minutes at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara unfolded with frequent interruptions, as both sides struggled to gain rhythm. Opportunities were scarce, but Roma forged the most promising chance when Bryan Zaragoza steered a shot wide from 18 yards after a swift counterattack led by Donyell Malen in the 20th minute. Bologna struggled for attacking momentum but did prompt Roma goalkeeper Mile Svilar into a crucial save just before half-time, with Bernardeschi’s ambitious effort from 25 yards turning out to be the closest the hosts came to scoring in the first period.
Triplice fischio al Dall'Ara ⏱️
La gara d'andata degli ottavi di Europa League termina in parità ⚖️#BolognaRoma #UEL #WeAreOne pic.twitter.com/qFtMaaDAdu
— Bologna FC 1909 (@Bolognafc1909) March 12, 2026
Bernardeschi Breaks the Deadlock
The intensity quickly escalated after the restart. Bologna drew first blood on 49 minutes, courtesy of Jonathan Rowe’s incisive pass that set up Bernardeschi down the right. The Italian’s curling drive left Svilar with no chance, firing the home side in front and energising the crowd.
Roma responded swiftly, as Malen narrowly missed the target from close range just four minutes later. Svilar kept his side in the contest with a courageous intervention to deny Tommaso Pobega on the hour mark, maintaining the slender margin.
Pellegrini Secures Roma’s Draw
With the match opening up, Roma capitalised on a defensive lapse in the 74th minute. Captain Bryan Cristante forced Joao Mario into a misplaced pass, and his through ball gave Malen the chance to strike at goal. When Skorupski could only parry, Pellegrini reacted fastest, slotting home from 10 yards to restore parity.
The dramatic closing stages saw both sides come agonisingly close to winning. Malen’s hurried attempt was inadvertently deflected onto the post by Jhon Lucumí, while at the other end, substitute Charalampos Lykogiannis crashed a header against Svilar’s crossbar in the final minute, ensuring honours finished even.
Statistical Overview and Unbeaten Runs
Bologna’s draw means they remain unbeaten in 10 UEFA Europa League matches following their opening loss to Aston Villa in the league phase. The hosts also continue their impressive record at home against Roma, going unbeaten in five consecutive meetings at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara across all competitions. The stage is set for a decisive second leg in Rome on 19 March.
| Match | Score | Goal Scorers | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bologna vs AS Roma (UEL Last 16, First Leg) | 1-1 | Bernardeschi (49’); Pellegrini (74’) | Stadio Renato Dall’Ara |
