Bologna coach Vincenzo Italiano shared his thoughts in a press conference following the team`s 1-1 draw against Freiburg in the Europa League. Reflecting on the result, Italiano stated: “We`re making progress in the standings, adding a small point to our European campaign. The objective is clear to everyone: we must advance past the first round. We`ve removed the `zero` from our points tally. I was pleased with the first half, but we faded in the second. In the final fifteen minutes, with Rowe and some renewed energy, we managed to create some danger. I`d like to see the team maintain that intensity consistently. Skorupski`s performance was crucial in securing this point for us. I am confident that we will improve; we have too much room for these kinds of mistakes. We aren`t sensing danger effectively, but we will address that. As of October 2nd, last year we were in a worse position.”
Impact of Substitutions and Team Mentality
When asked about Bologna`s apparent dip in performance after the triple substitution, Italiano explained: “Substitutions are made to introduce energy and pace, with players like Bernardeschi and Rowe. Today, it`s not easy for players to come on and immediately find the right rhythm to impact the game decisively. Our opponents impressed me in the second half, and it won`t be easy against other teams either. Rowe provided us with an important fifteen minutes; we must continue to seek that kind of contribution. The opposition pushed hard for a comeback and forced us into errors. I`ve told our new arrivals that all the quality we possess must shine through. I remain optimistic; the team needs to regain its brilliance and ferocity. We aspire to be that kind of team; we`re not there yet, but we will get there.”
Rationale Behind Orsolini`s Substitution
Addressing the question of why Orsolini was substituted, Italiano responded: “Against Genoa, we had the match under control. Today, however, we had to make a sacrifice, and from the 70th minute, I preferred to bring on fresh legs with Bernardeschi. If the situation had been the same today, he would have stayed on the field; match-to-match evaluations differ. Last year, `Orso` scored against Lecce after a poor performance, and it was similar against Genoa. Today, the dynamic was different. When Bernardeschi`s left foot reaches full fitness, he will bring us significant satisfaction.”
