Historical Context at the Dall`Ara – On May 23, 2021, Juventus secured the final Champions League spot for the following season by defeating Bologna 4-1 at the Dall`Ara (Chiesa, Rabiot, and a Morata brace were the scorers) on the final matchday of the 2020/2021 season, also benefiting from Napoli`s draw with Verona. Nearly four years later, qualification for Europe`s premier club competition once again comes down to the match at this very stadium. Ahead of Sunday evening`s encounter, Juventus holds a one-point advantage over Bologna (62 to 61), meaning they need just two out of three possible results (win or draw) to ensure qualification. Bologna, however, has had a formidable home record in Serie A this season, with 10 wins, 6 draws, and only 1 defeat, scoring 31 goals and conceding just 14. Their home defense, allowing only 14 goals, is the second best in the league, on par with Roma and Torino, and surpassed only by Napoli (11 conceded).
Team Statistics and Head-to-Head – Looking at recent form, Juventus has collected ten points in their last five league matches, averaging two points per game (three wins, one draw, one loss). A peculiar statistic is that all 6 goals scored by Juventus in this recent period have come in the first half. Bologna, conversely, has scored 10 goals in their last 9 competitive matches, suggesting they often become more dangerous as the game progresses. It`s also noted that the last time Bologna conceded a goal at home in the second half of a match was on February 14, 2024 (against Torino). While some season statistics might seem to favor Bologna`s overall home performance, the historical head-to-head record at the Dall`Ara strongly favors Juventus, who have remained unbeaten there for over 25 years; Bologna`s last home victory against the Bianconeri was in 1998. The last two league meetings between the sides at Bologna`s stadium (in the 2022/23 and 2023/24 seasons) both ended in draws, a result that would again be sufficient for Juventus in the upcoming decisive fixture to avoid being overtaken in the standings.
Significance for Juventus`s Future – Discussing the tight race for Champions League qualification, Juventus director Cristiano Giuntoli recently stated, “After the latest results, it`s possible that the points threshold for Champions League has increased, but at this moment, we just need to focus on our own performance.” While focusing on their own game is key, Juventus will face challenges, with several players reported to be unavailable due to suspension or injury. Securing Champions League football is paramount for the Turin club, not only for its significant financial benefits but also for enhancing the club`s prestige and attracting quality players in the future.