Match Preview
Bologna welcome Celtic for a high-profile European night on Thursday, 22 January 2026. It’s the kind of fixture where style clashes can decide everything: Bologna’s structured approach and home control against Celtic’s intensity, fast transitions, and fearless mentality in big games.
Bologna will likely try to build the match around stability and territory. At home, they usually want clean phases of possession, smart positioning, and pressure that grows over time. If they can keep Celtic defending in longer spells and win second balls around the box, chances will come especially through set pieces and wide deliveries.
Celtic’s path is different. They tend to thrive when the tempo is high. Expect them to press in bursts, attack quickly when space appears, and look for moments to punish Bologna if the Italian side commit too many bodies forward. If Celtic land the first goal, the entire game state can flip and force Bologna to take more risks.
The midfield battle should be decisive. If Bologna control the central zones and slow the rhythm, they can limit Celtic’s counter threat. If Celtic disrupt build-up and win turnovers in dangerous areas, they can create big chances without needing long possession spells. Small details one mistake, one set-piece delivery, one clinical finish could decide it.
Match Information
| Date | 22 January 2026 |
|---|---|
| Kick-off Time | TBC (check close to matchday) |
| Venue | Stadio Renato Dall’Ara, Bologna (Italy) |
| Competition | European club fixture |
| Match Type | League/Group-style matchup (format depends on competition stage) |
Key Match Themes
- Game state: The first goal could heavily shape the tactics and risk level.
- Midfield control: Bologna want rhythm; Celtic want disruption and speed.
- Transitions: Celtic’s biggest danger may come when Bologna push forward.
- Set pieces: A realistic route to goals in tight European matches.
Prediction
Final Score Prediction: Bologna 2-1 Celtic
Main pick: Bologna to win
Why: Home advantage and a more controlled match script favour Bologna slightly. Celtic are dangerous enough to score, but Bologna’s structure and pressure at home can be the difference over 90 minutes.
Alternative angles (optional):
- Both Teams To Score – Yes (if you expect Celtic to land transition chances)
- Over 1.5 Goals (a safer goals line for two attacking-minded sides)
- Bologna – Draw No Bet (home protection if you want reduced risk)