Bologna Falls to Cremonese 1-3

Bologna's European Hopes Dented by Cremonese Upset

In a stunning upset at the Dall'Ara stadium, Serie A's surprise package Bologna suffered a disappointing 1-3 defeat against Cremonese on December 1, 2025. The result leaves Italiano's side four points behind league leaders and raises questions about their ability to maintain their challenge for Champions League qualification.

The match began with a minute's silence in memory of Nicola Pietrangeli, a legendary figure in Italian football, before Bologna kicked off looking to build on their impressive European performance against Salisburgo during the week.

First Half Drama

The first half lived up to its billing as frizzante (lively), with both teams creating chances. Bologna started strongly, with Orsolini coming close within the first three minutes when his left-footed strike hit the post.

However, it was Cremonese who struck first against the run of play. In the 31st minute, Payero found the back of the net with a clinical finish, capitalizing on a well-worked move that exposed Bologna's defense.

The visitors doubled their lead just eleven minutes later when Vardy, proving he remains a threat despite his age, finished off an assist from Bonazzoli with a precise right-footed strike that left Ravaglia with no chance.

Bologna pulled a goal back just before halftime when Orsolini converted a penalty after Bianchetti was adjudged to have handled the ball in the area. The Bologna winger made no mistake from the spot, reducing the deficit to 2-1 at the break.

Second Half Collapse

The second half saw Cremonese extend their lead early on. Just four minutes after the restart, Vardy completed his brace, capitalizing on a defensive error from Ravaglia and Heggem to make it 3-1.

Bologna pushed for a way back into the game, with chances falling to Odgaard and others, but Audero in the Cremonese goal made several crucial saves to preserve his side's lead. The visitors also hit the woodwork through Baschirotto, further emphasizing their dominance in the second half.

Italiano's men continued to press, and Orsolini had another opportunity to score but his header was ruled out for offside. Late substitutions brought fresh legs, but it was too little too late for the home side.

Key Performances

Jamie Vardy once again proved that age is just a number, with his clinical brace earning the Man of the Match performance. The 38-year-old continues to defy expectations and is proving to be the signing of the season for Cremonese.

For Bologna, Orsolini's penalty goal was a positive note in an otherwise disappointing performance. The winger worked tirelessly throughout, but couldn't find a way past Audero on other occasions.

Implications for the League

This result is a significant blow to Bologna's Champions League ambitions. Sitting four points behind the leaders, they now face increased pressure to maintain their form, especially with the demands of European competition.

For Cremonese, this victory against one of the league's form teams solidifies their mid-table position and provides a boost to their confidence. Nicola's side has proven they can compete with the best and will look to build on this result.

The defeat also highlights the challenge that Bologna faces this season. While they've been impressive in moments, they've shown a tendency to drop points against teams lower in the table, a characteristic that has hindered previous 'surprise package' teams.

"C'è poco da fare, ogni volta che una squadra rivelazione deve fare il salto di qualità definitivo, qualcosa si inceppa e salta tutto... incredibile. Quest'anno speravo che il Bologna potesse fare il Leicester..." - Fan reaction from Gazzetta dello Sport

As the season progresses, both teams will look to learn from this encounter. Bologna must address their defensive vulnerabilities if they are to challenge for European spots, while Cremonese will take confidence from their ability to secure results against the league's top teams.

The Serie A title race remains wide open, with multiple teams capable of challenging for the top positions. This weekend's results have only added to the unpredictability that has characterized the 2025-26 season.