Bologna stunned Borussia Dortmund with a remarkable 2-1 victory on January 21, 2025, marking their first-ever win in the UEFA Champions League. The match, held at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara, showcased Bologna's determination as they scored two goals within just 60 seconds to overturn Dortmund's early lead.
It was Dortmund who drew first blood when Serhou Guirassy converted a penalty awarded after Emil Holm fouled Waldemar Anton during a corner kick. Guirassy's Panenka-style shot put Dortmund up 1-0 just 15 minutes in. Although the German side seemed to be on course for victory, their lack of attacking threat and increasingly passive approach after halftime proved fatal.
Bologna, which had only managed two points from its earlier matches, seized the moment. After several missed opportunities, including narrowly deflected shots and impressive saves from Dortmund keeper Gregor Kobel, Bologna finally found the net. Thijs Dallinga leveled the score at 1-1 after being set up by Jens Odgaard's low cross in the 71st minute.
Before Dortmund had time to regroup, Bologna struck again. Just moments later, Samuel Iling-Junior capitalized on the rebound from Dallinga's initial shot, putting the hosts up 2-1, much to the joy of the home crowd. This quick one-two punch left Dortmund reeling, unable to present any meaningful response.
The defeat was Dortmund's fourth consecutive loss across all competitions, raising questions about head coach Nuri Sahin’s future as they currently sit outside the qualification spots for the Champions League knockout stages, languishing at 13th with only 12 points.
Despite Guirassy's initial goal, which was described as ‘weak’ yet effective, Dortmund's inability to maintain momentum after the break showcased their struggles this season. They had finished with just three shots on target compared to Bologna's impressive tally of 17 attempts throughout the match.
Post-match reactions revealed discontent within the Dortmund camp, as Sahin faced mounting pressure from fans and management alike, particularly after recent Bundesliga defeats. A group hug from players following Guirassy's goal hinted at internal solidarity, yet the on-field performance contradicted their unity.
On the opposite end, Bologna reveled in their first-ever Champions League victory, celebrated passionately by players and fans. This victory not only brought them some much-needed points but instilled hope for their future, even as the club remained mathematically eliminated from advancing beyond the group stage.
Bologna's triumph is historic, especially after enduring struggles to find the net throughout the tournament. Their second goal highlighted both their resilience and Dortmund's defensive frailties, marking this victory as one of the turning points in Bologna's campaign.
Heading forward, Dortmund faces FC Shakhtar Donetsk, needing to rely on other results to keep their slim hopes of advancing alive. Meanwhile, Bologna aims to build on this victory as they continue their league campaign, hopeful of securing more wins as they strive to rise through the ranks of Serie A.
This match underscored football's unpredictable nature, where underdogs can seize opportunities against more established teams. For Dortmund, it marked yet another chapter of disappointment, signaling the urgent need for reflection and possible changes moving forward.