Bologna vs Milan: prediction, head-to-head and probable line-ups – 3 February 2026
The final match of Serie A’s 23rd round in the 2025/26 season will take place on Tuesday, February 3, at the Renato Dall'Ara Stadium, where Bologna will host AC Milan. This clash is crucial for the visitors, who are still chasing Inter in the fierce battle for the Scudetto. Here’s my take on this encounter, factoring in the current form of both teams.
Match preview
Bologna, under the guidance of Vincenzo Italiano, have been solid mid-table contenders this season (9th place, 30 points). The team displays real grit, especially at home, but recently the Rossoblù have been dropping points due to defensive frailties: they’ve conceded in all of their last ten Serie A matches. In the previous round, Bologna lost to Genoa (2-3), having led 2-0—another glaring example of their vulnerability at the back.
Nevertheless, the hosts’ attacking prowess remains impressive. Bologna have scored in six consecutive matches, and at the Renato Dall'Ara they’re known for giving league leaders a tough time. Italiano’s main objective for this clash is to contain Milan’s attacking force and make the most of set pieces, which are a real strength for Bologna. However, the absence of several key defenders through injury (including Lucumí) could prove decisive against a heavyweight opponent.
Massimiliano Allegri’s Milan are enjoying one of their best seasons in recent years, sitting second and trailing leaders Inter by just five points. The Rossoneri are in top psychological shape: they remain unbeaten away from home this season, having conceded just eight goals on their travels. Milan have shown pragmatic, efficient football in recent rounds, consistently picking up points against mid-table sides, as seen in recent wins over Lecce (1-0) and Como (3-1).
The visitors’ greatest asset right now is their squad balance. Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leão provide creative spark up front, while the defense, marshaled by Maignan, has been rock solid. With Milan out of all cup competitions, Allegri’s men are now fully focused on Serie A. There’s no room for slip-ups, as Inter are hardly dropping points, which means the Rossoneri will be expected to take the initiative and dominate from the opening whistle.
Match facts and head-to-head
- At least three goals have been scored in each of Bologna’s last five matches.
- Both teams have scored in five of Bologna’s last six matches.
- Milan are unbeaten in their last seven matches in all competitions.
- Five of Milan’s last six matches have seen fewer than three goals scored.
- Milan have dominated recent head-to-heads: in the last 10 meetings, the Rossoneri have won five times. Bologna have celebrated victory only twice, while three games ended in a draw.
- The reverse fixture earlier this season ended in a narrow Milan win (1-0).
Probable line-ups
- Bologna: Ravaglia – Zortea, Casale, Heggem, Miranda – Freuler, Ferguson, Odgaard – Orsolini, Cambiaghi, Castro
- Milan: Maignan – Tomori, Gabbia, De Winter – Saelemaekers, Ricci, Modrić, Rabiot, Bartesaghi – Pulišić, Leão
Prediction
I believe the visitors will come out on top in this contest. Milan currently look far more stable and potent in attack, and their relentless motivation in the title race will push the Rossoneri to fight for all three points until the final whistle. Despite Bologna’s courageous home displays, the difference in squad quality and the head-to-head statistics—which are overwhelmingly in Milan’s favor—will be decisive. My prediction: Milan to win.
