The much-anticipated clash between Bologna and Shakhtar Donetsk is set to take place on 18th September 2024, marking the first round of the UEFA Champions League league phase. The match will kick off at 16:45 GMT at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara in Bologna, which has a capacity of 38,279 spectators. The referee for this football match is Saggi R. from Norway. This game holds special significance as Bologna makes its debut in the expanded format of the tournament, while Shakhtar, seasoned competitors, aim to improve their past performances in Italy.
Bologna returns to Europe’s elite football competition after a six-decade absence and faces a formidable opponent in Shakhtar Donetsk. As part of the first round of the UEFA Champions League, both teams will be eager to start their campaigns on a high note. Football fans can expect a tense and exciting battle on the pitch, with both sides eager to claim their first points of the tournament.
BETTING TIPS AND MATCH INSIGHTS
The Bologna vs Shakhtar Donetsk prediction today revolves around several key factors. Bologna, though struggling in domestic competitions this season, has the advantage of playing on home soil, where they boast a strong European record. Meanwhile, Shakhtar Donetsk, despite their experience in the Champions League, has had difficulties on the road, particularly against Italian sides. With both teams in search of a solid start, it promises to be a tightly contested match. The odds suggest a balanced encounter, with goals likely to come from both sides.
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Bologna Results
Bologna enters this match in a mixed form, having struggled to secure wins in their early season fixtures. Below is a summary of their most recent matches:
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result | Outcome |
| 14/09/24 | Serie A | Como vs Bologna | 2-2 | D |
| 31/08/24 | Serie A | Bologna vs Empoli | 1-1 | D |
| 25/08/24 | Serie A | Napoli vs Bologna | 3-0 | L |
| 18/08/24 | Serie A | Bologna vs Udinese | 1-1 | D |
| 10/08/24 | Friendly | Mallorca vs Bologna | 1-2 (1-1) | D/W (after penalties) |
Bologna has struggled to gain momentum in the Serie A this season, with three draws and one heavy defeat against Napoli. Their defense has been a concern, conceding multiple goals, while their attack has shown flashes of potential. Despite these struggles, Bologna remains unbeaten at home in European competitions, which could play in their favor in this crucial Champions League fixture.
Shakhtar Donetsk Results
Shakhtar Donetsk, on the other hand, comes into this match with mixed fortunes in the Ukrainian Premier League. Below is a summary of their recent results:
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result | Outcome |
| 14/09/24 | Premier League | Shakhtar Donetsk vs Karpaty Lviv | 5-2 | W |
| 24/08/24 | Premier League | Oleksandriya vs Shakhtar Donetsk | 4-3 | L |
| 18/08/24 | Premier League | Livyi Bereg vs Shakhtar Donetsk | 0-1 | W |
| 12/08/24 | Friendly | Shakhtar Donetsk vs FSC Mariupol | 3-0 | W |
| 11/08/24 | Premier League | Shakhtar Donetsk vs Polissya | 0-1 | L |
Shakhtar has shown they can be dangerous in attack, notably scoring five goals in their last outing, but their defense has been vulnerable, as evidenced by conceding four goals against Oleksandriya. While they have demonstrated resilience, their form away from home, especially in Europe, remains a concern.
Bologna vs Shakhtar Donetsk: Head-to-Head
Both teams enter this match without any prior head-to-head encounters, making it difficult to predict how they will match up against each other. However, Shakhtar’s poor record against Italian teams could give Bologna an edge, especially with the Italian side playing at home.
Bologna vs Shakhtar Donetsk: Predicted Starting Lineups in Football
Before placing your bets or making predictions, it’s important to consider the likely starting lineups for both teams in this Champions League clash. The potential lineups are based on recent matches, injuries, and tactical preferences of the coaches. Below are the predicted lineups for Bologna and Shakhtar Donetsk ahead of their encounter on 18th September 2024.
Bologna possible starting lineup:
Skorupski (GK), Posch (DF), Beukema (DF), Lucumi (DF), Miranda (DF), Freuler (MF), Orsolini (MF), Aebischer (MF), Moro (MF), Ndoye (MF), Castro (FW)
Shakhtar Donetsk possible starting lineup:
Riznyk (GK), Konoplya (DF), Franjic (DF), Bondar (DF), Pedrinho (DF), Bondarenko (MF), Kyrskiv (MF), Sudakov (MF), Zubkov (FW), Sikan (FW), Kevin (FW)
Bologna vs Shakhtar Donetsk: Injuries and Suspensions
Both teams have had to deal with injuries that could impact their performance in this important Champions League fixture. Below is a summary of unavailable players due to injuries and suspensions, along with their expected recovery status.
| Team | Player | Injury Type | Return Status |
| Bologna | Oussama El Azzouzi | Knee injury | Long-term absence |
| Bologna | Nicolo Cambiaghi | Knee injury | Long-term absence |
| Bologna | Lewis Ferguson | ACL recovery | Working towards full fitness |
| Shakhtar | Marlon Gomes | Hamstring injury | Recently returned to training |
Bologna has been significantly affected by injuries, particularly in midfield, where the absence of Oussama El Azzouzi and Nicolo Cambiaghi will be felt. Additionally, Lewis Ferguson is still recovering from a serious ACL injury. On the other side, Shakhtar’s key midfielder Marlon Gomes has recently returned from a hamstring injury, and his fitness level will be closely monitored ahead of the game.
Key Match Factors
Both teams have their challenges and strengths coming into this encounter. Here are the key factors that could influence the outcome of this match:
- Bologna has not yet secured a win in competitive fixtures under new coach Vincenzo Italiano;
- Shakhtar’s defense has been inconsistent, particularly in away matches, making them vulnerable;
- Riccardo Orsolini, Bologna’s captain, will be a key player to watch, particularly in attack;
- Danylo Sikan, Shakhtar’s forward, has a strong Champions League goal-scoring record, with four goals last season;
- Bologna’s unbeaten home record in European competitions gives them a psychological advantage;
- Shakhtar’s Brazilian influence in midfield, including Marlon Gomes, will be critical for controlling the tempo of the game;
- Injuries to key Bologna players, including Nicolo Cambiaghi and Oussama El Azzouzi, could impact their performance;
- The away form of Shakhtar in European competitions is a concern, with just two wins in their last 11 away games.
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Free Tips on Bologna vs Shakhtar Donetsk
When it comes to betting on football matches like Bologna vs Shakhtar Donetsk, it’s crucial to analyze several important factors that can influence the outcome. By focusing on both teams’ current form, head-to-head performance, and other game-related statistics, you can make more informed betting decisions. Below are some key tips to consider before placing your bets on this exciting Champions League encounter.
- Team Form: Check how both Bologna and Shakhtar Donetsk have performed in their recent matches. Shakhtar, despite their impressive win in their last league game, has shown inconsistency, especially in away matches. Bologna, on the other hand, has struggled to find a winning formula in Serie A, but their European debut might push them to perform better.
- Injuries & Suspensions: Bologna has been hit by injuries, with key players like Nicolo Cambiaghi and Oussama El Azzouzi out long-term. Meanwhile, Shakhtar’s squad looks relatively fit, but keeping an eye on last-minute injuries or suspensions is crucial as they can heavily affect the team’s overall performance.
- Home vs. Away Performance: Bologna is playing at home, where they have never lost in European competitions, winning 15 out of 23 matches. Shakhtar Donetsk, however, has struggled historically when playing in Italy, losing 10 of their 15 games against Serie A sides.
- Team Motivation: Bologna is making its Champions League debut and will have strong motivation to perform well in front of their home crowd. Shakhtar, although more experienced in Europe, may feel the pressure of their poor away record and Italy’s notoriously tough atmosphere for visiting teams.
- Referee Influence: Norwegian referee Saggi R. will oversee the match. Some referees have tendencies to hand out more cards or penalties, which could influence specific betting markets, such as total cards or penalties awarded during the match. Keep an eye on his track record before making these bets.
By taking these factors into account, you can increase your chances of making a successful prediction for this exciting Champions League fixture.
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Bologna vs Shakhtar Donetsk Prediction 2024
Based on current form, home advantage, and historical context, the Bologna vs Shakhtar Donetsk odds suggest a closely fought match, with a potential draw being the most likely outcome. Shakhtar’s experience in Europe will play a role, but Bologna’s defensive resilience and strong home record could see them snatch a point. Given Shakhtar’s attacking potential, goals from both sides are expected.
Our Prediction: Bologna 2-2 Shakhtar Donetsk
| Prediction Type | Prediction | Odds |
| Full-Time Result | Draw | 3.5 |
| Both Teams to Score | Yes | 1.92 |
| Correct Score | 2-2 | 17.0 |
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