Celta experienced a difficult sixth matchday of the group stage, in which, for the first time this season at Abanca Balaídos in the Europa League, they fell 1-2 against Bologna. The Celestes took the lead thanks to Bryan Zaragoza, but a strong Italian side ended up prevailing with a brace from Federico Bernardeschi, who turned the score around in the second half and left Celta empty-handed.
The match began with Celta determined to continue their good European form at Balaídos, but they soon faced a Bologna team that took control and started creating danger from the opening minutes. Even so, it was the Celestes who struck first after a brilliant run down the wing by Williot Swedberg, who carried the ball with determination and delivered a precise pass for Bryan Zaragoza to score in the 17th minute, sparking joy in the stands. The goal did not stop the Italian side’s momentum, which continued to pile on attacks, forcing Radu to make a crucial save to maintain the lead. The first half progressed amid rain and the pace set by the visitors, but Celta managed to resist with order and went into the break ahead on the scoreboard.
After the restart, the pattern did not change. Although Celta tried to defend more compactly, Bologna continued to dominate, and after several missed chances and VAR-reviewed actions, they equalized from a penalty converted by Bernardeschi. Later, a loss of possession in the buildup allowed the experienced Italian attacker to find his way to Radu’s goal once again and, with a subtle finish, complete the Bologna comeback that would prove decisive.
After this 1-2 loss, Celta now prepares to refocus on LaLiga, where they will host Athletic Club at Abanca Balaídos on Sunday with the aim of starting to secure three points at home. Regarding the Europa League, the Vigo side will resume continental competition in 2026, with their ambition intact to fight for a place among the top of their group.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
1 – Celta: Radu; Javi Rodríguez, Carl Starfelt, Mihailo Ristic; Sergio Carreira, Ilaix Moriba, Beltrán (Miguel Román, min.79), Óscar Mingueza (Javi Rueda, min.66); Bryan Zaragoza (Hugo Álvarez, min.46), Williot Swedberg (Iago Aspas, min.68) and Borja Iglesias (Jutglá, min.68).
2 – Bolonia: Ravaglia; Holm, Heggem, Lykogiannis, Miranda; Moro (Odgaard, min.88), Pobega (Ferguson, min.88); Rowe (Cambiaghi, min.68), Fabbian, Bernardeschi (Dallinga, min.81); Castro (Orsolini, min.81).
Goals: 1-0, min.17: Bryan Zaragoza; 1-1, min.66 Bernardeschi, de penalti; 1-2, min.7: Bernardeschi.
Referee: Radu Petrescu (Romania). Booked Radu (87’), Javi Rueda (90’) and Ilaix Moriba (95’) for Celta, and Holm (83’) for Bologna.
Incidents: Match corresponding to the sixth round of the Europa League played at Abanca Balaídos in front of 20,302 spectators.
