Bologna vs Parma Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, Sunday, 8 February

Bologna will face Parma in a Serie A clash at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on Sunday, 8 February. This matchup presents an intriguing contest as both teams look to secure vital points in the league standings. With Bologna playing at home, they will aim to leverage their familiarity with Stadio Renato Dall’Ara to gain an advantage over their rivals.

Parma, on the other hand, will be eager to upset the hosts and climb the Serie A table. Both teams have shown flashes of brilliance this season, making this encounter one to watch for fans and bettors alike. As we delve into the prediction, match preview, and betting tips, the focus will be on key players and strategies that could influence the outcome of this exciting fixture.

Bologna vs Parma Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Draw – Bologna (-1) (Handicap)	3.53

Given the recent performances and historical trends, betting on a European Handicap 0-1 Draw for this match is a smart move. Bologna has been struggling at home lately, while Parma has shown they can be competitive on the road, making a narrow result plausible.

• Bologna has a poor recent home record with a 0-1-4 run, indicating they might struggle to secure a clear win.
• Parma has been competitive away, maintaining a 3-4-4 record, proving they can hold their own against stronger opponents.
• Historically, matches between these two teams have been closely contested, which supports the likelihood of a narrow result.

Betting Odds

Bologna are stepping onto their home turf at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara as clear favourites with odds of 1.59. However, Parma, despite their underdog status with odds of 5.63, could spring a surprise, especially if they capitalise on any defensive lapses.

Betting Tip	Odds
Bologna to win	1.59
Draw	3.92
Parma to win	5.63

The draw is priced at 3.92, which could be tempting for those expecting a closely fought encounter. With both teams having a history of competitive matches, the over 2.5 goals market might also be worth a look for those seeking higher returns.

Bologna Analysis & Past Performance

Bologna has struggled to maintain consistency in recent performances, achieving only one victory in their last five matches across all competitions. Their recent outings include a disappointing 3-0 home defeat against AC Milan, which highlights their defensive vulnerabilities.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Bologna	AC Milan	0 – 3 (Loss)	Serie A	3 Feb 2026
Maccabi Tel Aviv	Bologna	0 – 3 (Win)	Europa League	29 Jan 2026
Genoa	Bologna	3 – 2 (Loss)	Serie A	25 Jan 2026
Bologna	Celtic	2 – 2 (Draw)	Europa League	22 Jan 2026
Bologna	Fiorentina	1 – 2 (Loss)	Serie A	18 Jan 2026

Recent Form:
Bologna’s attack has been relatively productive, averaging 1.60 goals per game in their last five fixtures. However, defensive frailties are evident as they have conceded an average of 2.00 goals per game and failed to keep a clean sheet. With only one win and two draws at home from their last five home encounters, their home form has been particularly concerning.

Performance Analysis:
Despite their mid-table standing at 10th with 30 points, Bologna’s recent form indicates a win ratio of 20% over the last five games. Their inability to secure wins at home is reflected in a win ratio of 0.00% at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara for the same period, with four losses and one draw.

Team Statistics:

• LWLDL

Bologna has scored in 80% of their recent matches, suggesting some attacking prowess spearheaded by top scorer Riccardo Orsolini, who has netted 7 goals this season. However, their defensive record remains a concern, having conceded in all of their last five games, which indicates an urgent need to address defensive solidity.

Bologna Suspensions & Injuries

Bologna faces the upcoming match against Parma with a couple of injury concerns that could influence their defensive setup. The absence of Jhon Lucumí due to a muscle injury, with a doubtful return status, poses a significant challenge to their backline. His defensive prowess has been a key component for Bologna, and his unavailability might necessitate a reshuffle in their usual formation.

Lorenzo De Silvestri is another player struggling with a muscle injury, also listed as doubtful. Although not part of the starting lineup, his experience and versatility in defence and midfield could have provided valuable options from the bench. The team might have to rely more heavily on their current starters and hope for no further injuries during the match.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Jhon Lucumí	Muscle strain	Doubtful
Lorenzo De Silvestri	Muscle strain	Doubtful

In terms of tactical adjustments, Vincenzo Italiano might opt to maintain their 4-2-3-1 formation, given the current lineup’s balance and familiarity. However, the depth of their squad will be tested, particularly if any in-game injuries occur. This could impact their ability to maintain intensity throughout the match, potentially affecting their defensive solidity against Parma’s attacking threats.

Bologna Key Players

Riccardo Orsolini stands out as Bologna’s top scorer with 7 goals this season, making him a pivotal figure in their attacking line-up. Operating mainly from the midfield, Orsolini’s ability to cut inside and create scoring opportunities is vital for Bologna’s offensive play. His partnership with Santiago Castro, the lone forward, will be crucial in breaking down Parma’s defence.

The midfield duo of Remo Freuler and Lewis Ferguson plays a critical role in maintaining the team’s shape and providing the necessary link between defence and attack. Freuler’s experience and ball-winning abilities complement Ferguson’s energy and forward runs, giving Bologna a balanced midfield presence. At the back, Nicolò Casale’s leadership and organisational skills are indispensable, ensuring defensive solidity alongside Juan Miranda.

Expected lineup for Bologna

• Goalkeeper: Federico Ravaglia
• Defenders: Nadir Zortea, Nicolò Casale, Juan Miranda, Torbjørn Lysaker Heggem
• Midfielders: Remo Freuler, Lewis Ferguson, Riccardo Orsolini, Jens Odgaard, Jonathan Rowe
• Forward: Santiago Castro

Bologna Tactics and Formation

Bologna Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Santiago Castro
• Midfield Pivot: Remo Freuler and Lewis Ferguson
• Defensive Concerns: No clean sheets in the last five matches
• Notable Strategy: High possession-based play with frequent wing play.

Bologna’s 4-2-3-1 formation under Vincenzo Italiano aims to dominate possession, as evidenced by their 54% possession against AC Milan. Remo Freuler and Lewis Ferguson form the midfield pivot, providing a balance of defensive coverage and forward momentum. Riccardo Orsolini, the top scorer, operates effectively on the right wing, supported by Jens Odgaard and Jonathan Rowe.

Defensively, the absence of Jhon Lucumí due to injury impacts their stability, with Nicolò Casale and Juan Miranda tasked with central defensive duties. The team has struggled to keep clean sheets, conceding 11 goals in their last five games, highlighting vulnerabilities that Parma may exploit.

Offensively, Bologna leverages the pace and crossing ability of wingers like Orsolini and Rowe, seeking to create opportunities for Santiago Castro. Despite recent struggles, the team’s high possession style suggests they will look to control the game’s tempo and create chances through sustained pressure.

Parma Analysis & Past Performance

Parma has encountered a challenging phase in their recent fixtures, managing to secure only one victory in their last five matches. Their sole win came against Lecce (2-1), followed by two consecutive losses against Atalanta (0-4) and Juventus (1-4). These results indicate defensive vulnerabilities, as highlighted by their average of 1.80 goals conceded per game over this period.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Parma	Juventus	1 – 4 (Loss)	Serie A	1 Feb 2026
Atalanta	Parma	4 – 0 (Loss)	Serie A	25 Jan 2026
Parma	Genoa	0 – 0 (Draw)	Serie A	18 Jan 2026
SSC Napoli	Parma	0 – 0 (Draw)	Serie A	14 Jan 2026
Lecce	Parma	1 – 2 (Win)	Serie A	11 Jan 2026

Recent Form:

• LLDDW

Despite the struggles, Parma’s away form has been relatively better, with two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five away games. They have maintained a win ratio of 0.40 away from home. Offensively, they have struggled to make an impact, scoring an average of 0.60 goals per match across their last five games. Defensively, they have achieved two clean sheets, but consistency remains an issue. Currently positioned 16th in Serie A standings with 23 points, their recent performances underline the need for tactical adjustments to bolster both their attack and defence.

Parma Suspensions & Injuries

Parma faces a challenging situation with several key players unavailable due to injuries. Matija Frigan’s cruciate ligament injury is a significant blow, as he is expected to return in early March 2026. This absence weakens their attacking options significantly. Zion Suzuki and Pontus Almqvist are also sidelined with a broken hand and a muscle injury, respectively, both aiming for a mid-February return. Lautaro Valenti’s muscle injury further depletes their defensive depth, also targeting a mid-February comeback.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Matija Frigan	Cruciate ligament injury	Early March 2026
Zion Suzuki	Broken hand	Mid February 2026
Abdoulaye N’Diaye	Muscle injury	Doubtful
Pontus Almqvist	Muscle injury	Mid February 2026
Lautaro Valenti	Muscle injury	Mid February 2026

The absence of these players necessitates tactical adjustments from coach Carlos Cuesta. With Frigan out, Mateo Pellegrino will likely lead the attack, requiring midfielders like Gaetano Oristanio to step up creatively. Defensively, the reliance on Alessandro Circati and Enrico Del Prato becomes paramount to maintain solidity at the back.

Despite these setbacks, Parma’s core lineup remains intact, allowing them to maintain their preferred 4-3-2-1 formation. However, the lack of depth on the bench could influence their ability to adapt mid-game, potentially affecting their performance against Bologna. Bettors should consider these factors, as Parma’s weakened squad might struggle to secure a favourable result.

Parma Key Players

Mateo Pellegrino stands out as Parma’s top scorer with six goals to his name this season. His prowess in front of goal and ability to exploit defensive weaknesses make him a pivotal figure in the frontline. Pellegrino’s knack for finding space and finishing with precision will be crucial as Parma looks to penetrate Bologna’s defensive setup.

Supporting Pellegrino in the attacking phase is Gaetano Oristanio, whose creativity and vision in midfield can unlock defences and provide crucial passes. Adrian Bernabé’s presence in the midfield adds a layer of defensive solidity and playmaking ability, making him a key player in transitioning between defence and attack.

Expected lineup for Parma

• Goalkeeper: Edoardo Corvi
• Defenders: Enrico Del Prato, Alessandro Circati, Mariano Troilo, Emanuele Valeri
• Midfielders: Adrian Bernabé, Mandela Keita, Hans Nicolussi Caviglia, Jacob Ondrejka, Gaetano Oristanio
• Forward: Mateo Pellegrino

Defensively, Alessandro Circati is expected to marshal the backline with his robust tackling and aerial strength, vital for maintaining a solid defensive record against Bologna’s attacking threats. The tactical implications of these key players suggest a balanced approach, with a strong emphasis on attacking fluidity and defensive resilience.

Parma Tactics and Formation

Parma Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-3-2-1
• Key Forward: Mateo Pellegrino
• Midfield Trio: Adrian Bernabé, Mandela Keita, Hans Nicolussi Caviglia
• Defensive Structure: Recent struggles with maintaining clean sheets
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on counter-attacks and exploiting wide areas.

Parma lines up in a 4-3-2-1 formation, focusing on a solid midfield presence to control the game. The midfield trio of Adrian Bernabé, Mandela Keita, and Hans Nicolussi Caviglia is pivotal in both defensive and offensive transitions, providing a balance between ball retention and forward thrusts.

In defence, Enrico Del Prato and Emanuele Valeri serve as the full-backs, tasked with supporting the attack while maintaining defensive duties. The central defensive pairing of Alessandro Circati and Mariano Troilo will need to tighten up, as recent matches have shown vulnerabilities, with the team conceding nine goals in their last five games.

Offensively, Parma relies on the pace and creativity of wingers Jacob Ondrejka and Gaetano Oristanio to support lone striker Mateo Pellegrino, who leads the team’s scoring with six goals. The team favours quick counter-attacks, aiming to utilise the wide areas effectively to create goal-scoring opportunities.

Bologna vs Parma H2H Record

Bologna have the upper hand in their head-to-head record against Parma, with 15 wins compared to Parma’s 6, and 12 matches ending in a draw. The last time these two sides met, Bologna secured a 2-1 victory in the Coppa Italia, showcasing their dominance at home.

In Serie A, Bologna also came out on top in their most recent league encounter, winning 3-1 away at Parma. The last time Bologna hosted Parma in Serie A, the match ended in a goalless draw, highlighting a competitive edge when these teams clash at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Bologna	Parma	2 – 1	Italian Cup	2025-12-04
Parma	Bologna	1 – 3	Serie A	2025-11-02
Parma	Bologna	2 – 0	Serie A	2025-02-22
Bologna	Parma	0 – 0	Serie A	2024-10-06
Parma	Bologna	0 – 3	Serie A	2021-02-07