Bologna Coach Slams 'Permissive' Refereeing in Europa League Draw Against Roma

Bologna voiced strong dissatisfaction with the refereeing following their 1-1 Europa League draw against Roma. Both coach Vincenzo Italiano and player Santiago Castro claimed a foul occurred in the build-up to the opposition's equalizing goal.

Despite being an all-Italian affair held at the Stadio Dall’Ara, the match was a UEFA fixture officiated by German referee Sven Jablonski, with Bastian Dankert serving as the VAR.

The officiating style, described as distinct from what Bologna's Rossoblu were accustomed to, became a central point of contention, particularly in relation to Lorenzo Pellegrini's goal.

Bologna Protests UEFA Refereeing Decisions

Coach Italiano stated in his post-match press conference, "Remo Freuler was in possession of the ball, and while I can't definitively gauge the intensity of Donyell Malen's contact, the referee certainly had the option to award a foul there. Perhaps the German referee is accustomed to a different style of play. He was overly permissive throughout the match, especially regarding Evan Ndicka, who continuously restricted Castro by pulling his shirt, pushing, and holding his arm. A booking might have granted Castro the freedom to play his game more effectively."

Indeed, Pellegrini's equalizer was subject to a lengthy VAR review before ultimately being confirmed, as Malen had engaged in significant physical challenges with defenders during the assist.

Federico Bernardeschi had initially put the hosts ahead with a superb curling effort early in the second half.

Santiago Castro, speaking to reporters, commented, "I believe we delivered a great performance, took the lead, and really should have maintained it. We feel the referee's performance wasn't in our favor after our goal. It's perplexing that I faced four or five fouls without any cards being issued, but I suppose this is football, and how things often operate in European competitions."

Consequently, the tie remains finely balanced, with everything to play for in the second leg at the Stadio Olimpico next Thursday evening.