Bologna and Celtic meet in a pivotal UEFA Europa League clash, with both sides aiming to boost their continental credentials. Bologna come into this fixture boasting a solid defensive record and a robust home form, while Celtic travel seeking to improve upon a shaky start to their campaign. Kick-off is set for 17:45 GMT on Thursday 22nd January 2026 at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara, where the Italians will look to assert their dominance against the Scottish giants.
| Match Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Competition | UEFA Europa League |
| Matchday | 7 |
| Date | Thursday 22 January 2026 |
| Kick-off Time | 20:00 (UK) |
| Venue | Stadio Renato Dall’Ara |
| Broadcast | BT Sport |
| Market | Prediction | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Time Result | Bologna | ★★★★☆ |
| Correct Score | 2-1 Bologna | ★★★☆☆ |
| Both Teams to Score | Yes | ★★★☆☆ |
| Over/Under 2.5 Goals | Over 2.5 | ★★★☆☆ |
Analysis: Bologna have averaged 1.5 goals scored per match this season, while Celtic’s attack, despite their struggles, has managed to find the net in five of their last six outings. Bologna’s xG (expected goals) stands at 12.56 from six matches, indicating they create plenty of opportunities, even if their conversion rate is slightly below par. Celtic’s shot accuracy is 46.15%, meaning almost half their attempts test the keeper. Both teams have defensive vulnerabilities: Celtic have yet to keep a clean sheet in Europe this term, conceding 11 in six matches, while Bologna have conceded in five out of six. This points to a strong likelihood of both teams scoring.
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Analysis: While no Bologna player leads the competition in goal scoring, veteran striker Ciro Immobile is expected to lead the line against a Celtic defence that has shipped 11 goals in six matches. Immobile has the experience and movement to exploit a backline that has struggled away from home. With Bologna’s high shot volume (averaging nearly 18 shots per game) and Celtic’s tendency to allow their opponents clear-cut opportunities (as highlighted by their xG against), Immobile is well placed to add to his tally. The odds offer value given his role as Bologna’s penalty taker and focal point in attack.
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Bologna currently sit 13th in the group with 11 points from six matches, having won three, drawn two, and lost just once. Their defensive solidity has been notable, conceding only five goals and keeping one clean sheet. In contrast, Celtic have struggled to find consistency, sitting 24th with seven points, two wins, one draw, and three defeats. The Scottish side have scored seven but conceded 11, reflecting their propensity for open matches but defensive frailty.
Bologna’s offensive numbers are impressive: 107 shots, 38 on target (35.5% on target), and an xG of 12.56. However, their actual goals (9) lag behind their expected output, suggesting a degree of bad luck or poor finishing that could regress positively. Celtic, meanwhile, are more efficient with fewer opportunities: 57 shots, 25 on target (43.9% on target), and a 46.15% shot accuracy. Both sides average similar possession (Bologna 53.07%, Celtic 53.98%), indicating a battle for midfield control.
Bologna under Vincenzo Italiano are likely to stick with a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3, focusing on high pressing and transition play. Their midfield is packed with workhorses, evidenced by 112 tackles attempted and a 58.9% success rate. Expect them to push full-backs forward and try to overload Celtic’s flanks, utilising the pace and guile of wide players like Bernardeschi and Orsolini.
Celtic, led by Martin O’Neill, prefer a possession-based approach with quick interchanges and overlapping full-backs. Their pass accuracy (84.71%) is higher than Bologna’s, and they are likely to focus on controlling the tempo. However, their defensive organisation has been suspect, with only 51 tackles won from 81 attempts (63% success) and no clean sheets so far. Celtic’s midfield will need to offer better protection to avoid being overrun during transitions.
| Statistic | Bologna | Celtic |
|---|---|---|
| League Position | 13th | 24th |
| Goals Scored | 9 | 7 |
| Goals Conceded | 5 | 11 |
Scotland international Lewis Ferguson has become a key cog in Bologna’s midfield, offering drive, defensive discipline, and attacking guile. While he has not topped the tournament’s scoring or assist charts, Ferguson’s influence is clear. He has helped Bologna win 50% of their matches this season, with the side boasting a positive goal difference (+4). Ferguson’s energy is reflected in Bologna’s 112 tackles attempted and 66 tackles won (58.9%), while his ability to break lines and support the forwards is critical to the team’s attacking transitions. Expect Ferguson to play a pivotal role both in regaining possession and launching attacks against his compatriots from Celtic.
Q: Who is the favourite to win the Bologna vs. Celtic match?
A: Bologna are clear favourites based on their defensive record, superior shot creation, and home advantage. The bookmakers also price them as strong favourites in the match result market.
Q: What are the best betting odds for this match?
A: The best value selections are Both Teams to Score (Yes) and Ciro Immobile to Score Anytime, alongside Bologna to win.
Q: Where can I watch the Bologna vs. Celtic match?
A: The game will be broadcast live in the UK on BT Sport.
Bologna’s strong defensive foundation and high attacking output make them favourites to see off a Celtic side still searching for consistency. The Italians’ xG and shot volume point to ongoing attacking threat, while Celtic’s leaky back line should offer opportunities. Both teams possess enough quality in attack to get on the scoresheet, but Bologna’s home advantage and tactical discipline tip the scales in their favour. Key value bets include Both Teams to Score and a Ciro Immobile anytime goal. Expect an entertaining contest with goals at both ends, but Bologna’s superior balance should see them through.
All betting odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change. Please gamble responsibly. For more information and support, visit BeGambleAware.org. You must be 18 or over to gamble.
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