FCSB vs Bologna

The UEFA Europa League group-stage match between FCSB and Bologna will be played on Thursday, 23 October 2025, at the Arena Naţională in Bucharest, Romania. Kick-off is scheduled for 17:45 local time. This fixture is particularly important for both clubs, as it could prove decisive in determining qualification positions within the group. The Arena Naţională, Romania’s largest stadium, is expected to welcome a strong turnout of home fans eager to see FCSB test themselves against Serie A opposition under the floodlights.

Both teams come into the game with a few injury concerns. FCSB are without key defenders Joyskim Dawa and Daniel Graovac due to knee and muscle problems, while Mihai Popescu remains sidelined with a long-term knee injury. Midfielder Malcom Edjouma is also a doubt after being forced off early in the previous league match. Bologna, meanwhile, have relatively fewer absentees, though a few squad players remain unavailable for selection. FCSB’s substitutes are likely to include several young defenders and a second striker to offer flexibility, while Bologna’s bench is expected to feature experienced midfielders and attacking options to influence the game if needed.

Tactically, FCSB coach Elias Charalambous is expected to deploy his side in a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on compact defense and quick transitions. His plan revolves around staying organised at the back and using pace on the wings to catch Bologna on the counterattack. The Romanian side will likely sit deeper and aim to strike through set-pieces and countering runs behind Bologna’s high defensive line. Bologna coach Vincenzo Italiano will stick to his high-pressing philosophy, favouring possession-based football and fluid movement between midfield and attack. His side will look to stretch FCSB’s shape by switching play quickly and maintaining pressure through overlapping full-backs.

In the buildup to the match, the Romanian press has described this as one of FCSB’s most challenging European nights of the season, stressing the need for a disciplined defensive display. Local media have pointed out that FCSB’s recent inconsistency in the domestic league puts extra pressure on them to show resilience in Europe. In Italy, coverage has been more confident, noting Bologna’s impressive form in Serie A and their balanced style under Italiano. Journalists expect Bologna to dominate possession and create more chances, though several have warned that the intense atmosphere in Bucharest could make this a difficult away test.

Analysts in studio discussions have focused on whether FCSB can withstand Bologna’s pressure for 90 minutes. Many believe the home side must remain compact and avoid conceding early, as an early goal for Bologna could change the dynamic entirely. Others have highlighted Bologna’s midfield depth as a potential advantage, allowing them to control tempo and sustain attacks. Some pundits predict a narrow Bologna win based on form and tactical cohesion, while others suggest FCSB’s home support and counterattacking style could earn them a valuable point if they stay organised and clinical in front of goal.

Watch and Download FCSB vs Bologna full match replay and highlights, At Wednesday, October 23, 2025. The match played at Arena Naţională, in Europa League, UEFA.

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