Bologna vs Celtic prediction, head-to-head and probable lineups - 22 January 2026
One of the headline fixtures of Europa League matchday seven will take place on Thursday at the Renato Dall'Ara Stadium in Bologna, where the hosts welcome Scottish giants Celtic. Both teams are locked in a fierce battle for a playoff spot, with every point potentially decisive. Here’s a bet tip for this showdown with promising odds for success.
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Match preview
Bologna are facing mounting problems, most notably with their results. After an emotional Europa League win over Celta, the team slumped into a prolonged downturn, managing just one victory in their last nine matches. Manager Italiano admits the current form is far from ideal, compounded by the absence of two key players—Lucumí and Bernardeschi.
The "Rossoblù" have been inconsistent in attack, scoring more than once in only one game over the past weeks. Defensive lapses have become routine, leaving Bologna vulnerable even on home turf. The team is still in contention for European spots, but without a significant improvement in performance, that goal looks increasingly out of reach.
Celtic have once again put their faith in the experienced Martin O’Neill—and the results have been immediate. After a string of defeats under the previous manager, the team has come alive, winning their last three matches in Scotland and advancing to the next round of the cup. The return of the charismatic boss has injected fresh energy and restored belief in the squad.
Despite the positive momentum, Celtic do have issues: several key players will miss the match against Bologna. Nevertheless, there remains enough quality in the squad to cause problems, and Celtic have already shown they can rise to the occasion against tough opponents. Given Bologna’s instability, the Bhoys can realistically aim for at least a point.
Probable lineups
- Bologna: Ravaglia, Lykogiannis, Heggem, Vitik, Zortea, Ferguson, Moro, Cambiaghi, Odgaard, Rowe, Dallinga
- Celtic: Schmeichel, Araujo, Scales, Trusty, Tierney, Engels, McGregor, Nygren, Hyun-Jun, Maeda, Tounekti
Match facts and head-to-head
- Bologna have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last 14 matches.
- Celtic have won their last three matches since Martin O’Neill’s return.
- Both teams have scored in four of their last five Europa League games.
Prediction
This match will be a tough test for both sides: Bologna are in the midst of a deep crisis, while Celtic are rebuilding under a returning manager. The hosts struggle at the back and lack attacking sharpness, while the visitors bring fighting spirit and recent wins. Considering Bologna’s internal turbulence and Celtic’s positive trend, a draw with goals from both teams looks the most likely outcome.
