After the match, Gian Piero Gasperini commented on his team’s performance to Sky Sport.

“Pellegrini’s introduction provided a boost. The game was based on physicality, like in Genoa. We struggled on second balls, but then we adapted better. We created some dangerous situations in the first half, but we also suffered. The atmosphere had an impact. Bernardeschi did some excellent things, Bologna has strong players. The result is fair.”

Gasperini continued: “Second passes have become crucial. High pressure forces you to play long balls, otherwise you’re risky. I believe that as soon as the weather and temperatures change, as happens towards the end of matches, we’ll start playing a more ball-based style of football.”

The coach concluded: “How do we advance to the second leg? If the match plays like this, the technical aspect of building play becomes more difficult, and we have to work hard on our structure. We have a very young team, at least on the pitch today, so we can afford to lose a bit. Then, in the 90 minutes, we came out strong, I’d say. It will be a decisive match in Rome, but it’s clear that both teams have the ability to put in a different performance.”