Italiano: Dortmund clash must be like a final for Bologna players | OneFootball

Bologna are still winless in the Champions League group phase and virtually out of the competition, but their coach Vincenzo Italiano expects his men to prepare for their second-last European fixture against Borussia Dortmund as if they were ‘about to play a final’.

The Rossoblu have been showcasing impressive consistency in Serie A but never managed to bring their domestic form into the European stage, as they only picked up two points from six league phase games and retain just 2% of chances of qualifying for the play-offs.

BOLOGNA, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Riccardo Orsolini of Bologna scores his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between Bologna and Monza at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on January 18, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

However, Italiano is adamant that Champions League experience has helped his side grow in recent months, as he is ‘pleased’ with his team’s development, also admitting he gets ‘goosebumps’ when thinking about how the fans could feel if Bologna manager to get their first win in their last game at home.

Italiano: Bologna growing thanks to Champions League,

“We’ll approach it just like the last home game,” Italiano said at a pre-match press conference, as quoted by TMW.

“Our goal is to erase the zero in the win column, and we’ll do everything we can to achieve that against a team that’s also performing well in this Champions League.

“We’ll bring enthusiasm, together with our fans. We’re in good shape, and I’m happy with how we’re growing, perhaps also thanks to the Champions League.

“We’ve performed well in this competition so far, and we need to build on that tomorrow. We’ll try to do something extraordinary against a very strong team.

“Borussia are a very dangerous, strong team that plays good football. They’ve lost their last few matches in a dramatic fashion.

“They’ve made some adjustments to their system, but they often use attacking wingers, a striker, and a double pivot in midfield. I think they’ll line up in this way, but if they change, we’ll be ready to adapt. They’re a team accustomed to this competition, so they’re a high-level and valuable opponent, but we’re ready to play our game.

“I think this team has grown a lot, especially in terms of physical conditioning. I’m very pleased with everyone’s development.

“I’d replay the match against Shakhtar because if we had achieved a full result, it could have given us more confidence and self-esteem.

Vincenzo Italiano Liverpool-Bologna (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

“However, this journey has taught us a lot and has been a source of growth for everyone—for me and for the team. We’ve experienced what it means to face top-level teams.”

The former Fiorentina boss explained he focused on his side’s ‘mental aspect’ when talking to the team ahead of the upcoming game, as he doesn’t want to miss out on the chance to make their fans rejoice.

“I emphasized the mental aspect,” Italiano said.

“When we play at 9pm the next day, we never go into retreat. I’ve asked the players to start focusing on the match tonight.

“Tomorrow, I want them to arrive as if they’re about to play a final. We have the chance to give our fans incredible joy. I get goosebumps just thinking about what could happen if we achieve the result.”