Bologna Football Club pulled off a remarkable comeback on February 27, 2025, to reclaim their position higher on the Serie A table, defeating AC Milan 2-1 at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara. This victory is significant not merely for the three points but also for the morale of Bologna, as it marks their first win over Milan at home since 2002.
The match started with high intensity, and AC Milan seemed the more potent side early on. Just two minutes before halftime, Rafael Leao converted a flick-on pass from Santiago Gimenez, rounding Bologna's goalkeeper, Lukasz Skorupski, and finishing effortlessly to give the Rossoneri the lead. The play epitomized Milan's quick counter-attack strategy, showcasing the creative prowess of their front line.
Despite the setback, Bologna showed character and resilience. Manager Vincenzo Italiano praised his players' determination throughout the match, saying, "I saw another fantastic reaction from the team to going behind... we witnessed the character of these players once more." His faith was soon rewarded as Bologna found their rhythm after the break.
The equalizing goal came surprisingly quick after halftime when Santiago Castro scored from close range less than three minutes later, capitalizing on defensive lapses from Milan. Following this, multiple appeals from Milan for handball and offside during the build-up were denied, emphasizing the frustration building within the visiting side.
Bologna maintained momentum as the half progressed, applying pressure and forcing Milan to retreat defensively. With Milan unable to adjust, Dan Ndoye, who had been introduced as substitute, scored the decisive goal at the 82nd minute. A well-placed cross from the left side allowed Ndoye to pounce, and he stabbed the ball home from mere yards out, sealing the impressive comeback.
The defeat has serious repercussions for AC Milan, who now find themselves eight points adrift of Juventus, who sit fourth, making their hopes of Champions League qualification more tenuous. Leao reflected on the match, admitting, "We are disappointed... the way we conceded the goal, some strange plays... But now there’s another important game against Lazio," stressing the need to stay focused moving forward.
Both teams entered this rescheduled match, previously postponed due to flood warnings, with 41 points. Bologna’s recent form suggested they could challenge Milan effectively, but the Rossoneri still were widely considered the favorites. Today's surprising victory has witnessed Bologna leapfrog over both Milan and Fiorentina to secure sixth place.
Italiano also praised the depth of his squad, indicating the importance of substitutions, stating, "When the substitutes come on with this attitude, it benefits the whole squad and makes a real difference." His comments highlight the physical demands of Serie A, particularly during this comprimised season, where they also faced early elimination from the Champions League.
Coming off this match, Bologna fans can be optimistic as they advance to the Coppa Italia semi-finals with their next encounter against Empoli. Meanwhile, AC Milan’s coach, Sergio Conceição, faces mounting pressure to rectify his team’s form as defensive mistakes continue to undermine their campaign.
This match will remain etched in the memories of Bologna supporters, as they cherish the remarkable fightback against such formidable rivals, and it serves as both aspiration and motivation as they progress through this competitive season.