Introduction
The clash between AC Milan and Bologna is one of Serie A’s most intriguing fixtures. While Milan is a global football powerhouse, Bologna has often played the role of a stubborn underdog, capable of causing upsets.
Historical Context & Club Backgrounds
AC Milan
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Founded: 1899
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Stadium: San Siro (75,923 capacity)
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Serie A Titles: 19 (2nd most)
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European Cups: 7 (2nd only to Real Madrid)
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Style of Play: Possession-based, attacking full-backs, quick transitions
Milan is one of Italy’s most decorated clubs, home to legends like Paolo Maldini, Marco van Basten, and Kaka. Under Stefano Pioli, they’ve returned to title contention.
Bologna FC
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Founded: 1909
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Stadium: Renato Dall’Ara (27,000 capacity)
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Serie A Titles: 7 (last in 1964)
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Style of Play: High-pressing, aggressive midfield, counter-attacking
Bologna isn’t a giant, but they’ve been a tough opponent in recent years, especially under Thiago Motta’s tactical innovations.
Head-to-Head Record (All Competitions)
| Matches Played | AC Milan Wins | Bologna Wins | Draws |
|---|---|---|---|
| 158 | 74 | 42 | 42 |
Recent Meetings (Last 5 Matches)
| Date | Competition | Result | Scorers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 2024 | Serie A | Bologna 2-2 Milan | Zirkzee, Orsolini (BOL); Leão, Loftus-Cheek (MIL) |
| Aug 2023 | Serie A | Milan 2-0 Bologna | Giroud, Pulisic |
| Apr 2023 | Serie A | Bologna 1-1 Milan | Sansone (BOL); Díaz (MIL) |
| Oct 2022 | Serie A | Milan 2-0 Bologna | Leão, Bennacer |
| Apr 2022 | Serie A | Bologna 0-0 Milan | – |
Key Observations from H2H Record
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Milan’s Dominance: Unbeaten in last 6 meetings (4 wins, 2 draws).
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Low-Scoring Games: 4 of last 5 had Under 2.5 Goals.
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Bologna’s Resilience: Drew twice at home in 2023/24.
Tactical Breakdown: How Both Teams Play
AC Milan’s Approach
✅ Possession-based (55-60% average)
✅ Reliance on wingers (Leão, Pulisic) for creativity
✅ High defensive line with aggressive full-backs (Theo Hernández)
❌ Vulnerable to counter-attacks
Bologna’s Approach
✅ High pressing & quick transitions
✅ Strong midfield control (Ferguson, Freuler)
✅ Target man (Zirkzee) in attack
❌ Struggles against teams with fast wingers
Key Players to Watch
AC Milan
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Rafael Leão (LW) – Dribbling, speed, and clutch goals.
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Christian Pulisic (RW) – In great form (6 goals in 2023/24).
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Theo Hernández (LB) – One of the best attacking full-backs in the world.
Bologna
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Joshua Zirkzee (ST) – Tall, technical striker with 8+ goals this season.
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Lewis Ferguson (CM) – Box-to-box midfielder with a goal threat.
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Riccardo Orsolini (RW) – Bologna’s top scorer (7+ goals).
Recent Form (2023-24 Season)
| Team | Last 5 Matches (All Competitions) |
|---|---|
| AC Milan | ✅ Win vs Frosinone (3-2) ❌ Loss vs Monza (4-2) ✅ Win vs Napoli (1-0) ⚽ Draw vs Bologna (2-2) ✅ Win vs Rennes (3-0, UEL) |
| Bologna | ✅ Win vs Sassuolo (4-2) ⚽ Draw vs Milan (2-2) ✅ Win vs Lecce (4-0) ❌ Loss vs Cagliari (2-1) ✅ Win vs Fiorentina (2-0) |
Analysis:
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Milan is inconsistent but strong in Europe.
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Bologna is in great form (3 wins in last 5).
Match Prediction & Betting Tips
Possible Outcomes:
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Milan Win (2-1 or 1-0) – Stronger squad, home advantage.
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Draw (1-1 or 2-2) – Bologna’s defense is solid.
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Bologna Shock Win (0-1) – If Zirkzee & Orsolini click.
Betting Tips:
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Both Teams to Score (Yes) – Bologna scores in 80% of games.
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Over 2.5 Goals – Recent games have been open.
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Rafael Leão to Score Anytime – Loves playing against Bologna.
Conclusion: Why This Fixture Matters
While Milan is the favorite, Bologna has proven to be a tough opponent. With Zirkzee’s rise and Milan’s attacking flair, this could be a thrilling contest.
