Bologna – AC Milan: Allegri’s Tactical Masterclass Dominates At The Dall’Ara (0-3)

After a sluggish opening period that saw Bologna struggle to build meaningful momentum, AC Milan turned the tide with ruthless efficiency, translating early pressure into a commanding victory at the Dall’Ara. The Rossoneri not only punished their hosts’ defensive lapses but also imposed their own tactical rhythm throughout the contest, with Loftus-Cheek, Nkunku and Rabiot all on target to seal a convincing 3–0 win.

Tactical analysis and match report by Mustafa Hassan.

The starting XIs highlighted two contrasting interpretations of structure and control. Bologna, under Vincenzo Italiano, set up in a 4-2-3-1 designed to maintain midfield presence and support wide progression rather than impose sustained territorial pressure. Federico Ravaglia started in goal behind a back four of Zortea, Heggem, Casale and Juan Miranda, a defensive line built more for coverage and ball circulation than aggressive line-breaking.

In midfield, Lewis Ferguson and Remo Freuler formed a double pivot tasked with stabilising possession and protecting central zones, allowing Bologna’s attacking line to operate with relative freedom. Orsolini and Jonathan Rowe provided width from the flanks, while Jens Odgaard occupied the central pocket between the lines, supporting Santiago Castro, who functioned as a developing focal point rather than a dominant penalty-box presence. The shape suggested an intention to progress patiently, but it lacked vertical threat against Milan’s compact structure.

Milan, by contrast, adopted a clearly defined and pragmatic 3-5-2 under Massimiliano Allegri, prioritising control, spacing and transitional security. Mike Maignan anchored the side behind a back three of De Winter, Gabbia and Pavlović, a unit comfortable stepping into midfield while preserving numerical superiority at . . .