Roma Aims to Continue Winning Streak Against Bologna in Serie A

ROME — Roma will look to build on their recent derby victory as they face Bologna in a crucial Serie A clash on Sunday. The match, set to kick off at 17:00 GMT at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara, comes on the heels of Roma’s 2-0 win over Lazio, a result that has boosted morale within the squad.

Claudio Ranieri‘s side will likely field the same starting XI that secured the derby triumph, with Lorenzo Pellegrini, who scored the opening goal against Lazio, expected to play a key role. Pellegrini’s form has been a bright spot for Roma, and Ranieri praised his captain’s dedication in training. “He’s always top of the class in training. Always,” Ranieri said. “He looked especially lively and focused today.”

Roma’s defense will once again be anchored by Mats Hummels, whose presence has been pivotal under Ranieri. The veteran defender’s future at the club remains uncertain, with Ranieri acknowledging that the decision ultimately lies with Hummels. “If he wants to stay, if he wants to keep playing. We can’t force him,” Ranieri said. “If he’s happy here, and I think he is.”

Bologna, meanwhile, enters the match after a disrupted schedule. Their last game, a 3-2 defeat to Hellas Verona on December 30, was followed by a postponement of their fixture against Inter due to the Supercoppa Italiana. Thiago Motta‘s side will be without suspended midfielder Tommaso Pobega, as well as long-term absentees Michel Aebischer, Oussama El Azzouzi, and Nicolò Cambiaghi.

Despite these setbacks, Bologna remains a formidable opponent, sitting five points ahead of Roma in the Serie A standings. Dan Ndoye and Riccardo Orsolini have recovered from minor injuries and are expected to start, while Benjamin Dominguez, who scored twice against Verona, will lead the attack alongside Thijs Dallinga.

Roma’s lineup is expected to feature Mile Svilar in goal, with a back three of Gianluca Mancini, Hummels, and Evan N’Dicka. Alexis Saelemaekers and Angelino will provide width as wing-backs, while Leandro Paredes and Manu Koné will anchor the midfield. Paulo Dybala and Pellegrini will support striker Artem Dovbyk in attack.

Bologna’s probable lineup includes Lukasz Skorupski in goal, with a defense of Stefan Posch, Sam Beukema, and Jhon Lucumì. Lewis Ferguson and Remo Freuler will control the midfield, with Ndoye, Orsolini, and Dominguez providing attacking support for Dallinga.

With both teams eager to secure three points, Sunday’s clash promises to be a tightly contested affair. For Roma, a victory would not only close the gap on Bologna but also reinforce their momentum as they push for a top-four finish.