Liverpool vs Bologna Report
Scorers: Mac Allister 11’, Salah 75’
Liverpool recorded their second consecutive victory in the UEFA Champions League, defeating Bologna 2-0 at Anfield.
The Reds have now won eight out of their last nine games under manager Arne Slot, strengthening their position in the league phase.
Early Drama: Liverpool and Bologna Trade Chances
Fresh off their opening win against AC Milan, Liverpool faced another Italian opponent, this time Bologna, who are playing in their debut UCL campaign.
The home side dominated the early stages, but it was the visitors who nearly struck first. Thijs Dallinga found the back of the net after racing through on goal and slipping the ball past Alisson. However, his effort was ruled out for offside, denying him a third career goal against Liverpool.
Liverpool responded immediately and took the lead through a well-executed play. Mohamed Salah’s cross to the back post was met by Alexis Mac Allister, who tapped in to make it 1-0 for the Reds.
The home side continued to look dangerous, with Darwin Núñez having a goal ruled out for offside shortly after. Bologna, determined not to go down without a fight, ended the first half on a high.
Riccardo Orsolini’s header across the box was blocked by a teammate, while Dan Ndoye struck the woodwork from close range, leaving Liverpool relieved to carry their lead into halftime.
Liverpool’s Second-Half Revival and Salah’s Brilliance
Bologna started the second half brightly, putting pressure on Liverpool’s defence and testing Alisson with a dangerous free-kick from Orsolini.
The visitors nearly gifted Liverpool a second goal when captain Remo Freuler’s misdirected header from a corner narrowly missed his own net. Concerned by his side’s dip in intensity, Slot introduced Cody Gakpo and Kostas Tsimikas, and the substitutions had an immediate impact.
Momentum swung back in Liverpool’s favour, and they soon doubled their lead through Mohamed Salah. The Egyptian winger did what he does best—cutting inside from the right wing and curling a sublime effort into the far corner to make it 2-0. This goal effectively ended Bologna’s hopes of a comeback, as the visitors struggled to regain their earlier momentum.
Liverpool’s Dominance and Bologna’s Tough Start
With the second goal cushioning their lead, Liverpool comfortably saw out the final quarter-hour, securing their second UCL win and maintaining their perfect start in the competition.
Bologna, still searching for their first points in the group stage, face a tough task as they prepare to return to England for their next match against Aston Villa.
Key Moments
- Mac Allister’s Opener (25′): Alexis Mac Allister taps in at the back post from a Mohamed Salah cross to put Liverpool ahead.
- Bologna’s Close Calls: Thijs Dallinga’s disallowed goal for offside, and Dan Ndoye’s shot hitting the woodwork, marked missed opportunities for the visitors.
- Salah’s Stunning Strike (65′): Mohamed Salah curls in a trademark finish to make it 2-0, sealing Liverpool’s victory.
Conclusion
Liverpool’s controlled performance and timely goals earned them a comfortable win at Anfield, further solidifying their position in the UCL league phase.
With two victories in as many matches, the Reds continue to build confidence under Arne Slot’s leadership. Bologna, meanwhile, face a challenging campaign ahead as they seek to find their first win in the group stage.
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