Italian stalemate in the land of tortellini

Welcome to the Europa League Round of 16, where we were treated to an all-Italian affair that had all the tactical excitement of watching paint dry on a rainy afternoon in Emilia-Romagna. Bologna and AS Roma played out a 1-1 draw at the Dall’Ara that leaves everything precisely where it started: in a state of mild confusion and mutual suspicion.

After a first half that could have been used by local hospitals as a potent anesthetic, both teams finally remembered that the goal is the rectangle with the net at the back. Bologna, currently sitting 8th in Serie A and still riding the high of bullying Brann in the play-offs, proved they belong at this level, mostly by being incredibly difficult to watch. They haven’t conceded many in Europe lately, but Roma finally punctured that bubble of smugness.

Gian Piero Gasperini, who has somehow turned Roma into a team that actually runs, must be wondering how his side didn't leave with more. Roma entered this clash as the 4th best team in Italy, armed with Paulo Dybala’s magic left foot and Evan Ferguson’s youthful exuberance. They dominated the ball like a greedy toddler, yet they lacked the KILLER instinct required to put this tie to bed before the return flight to the capital.

The second half gave us the goals, but not the clarity. Bologna’s organization was admirable if you’re a fan of structural engineering, but for everyone else, it was a bit of a slog. They fought back to level the score, ensuring that their European dream hasn't been extinguished just yet.

What does this mean for the tie? Absolutely nothing. We are heading to the Stadio Olimpico next week with the scores level and the away goals rule a distant memory of a simpler time. Roma remain the favorites because they have the depth and the home crowd, but Bologna have shown they are more than happy to play the role of the annoying guest who refuses to leave the party.

Expect more of the same in the second leg: twenty-two men following each other around like they’re in a low-budget spy thriller. It wasn't a CLASSIC, but it was intensely Italian. If you like your football served with a heavy side of tactical discipline and a sprinkle of "we’ll settle this later," then this was the match for you. For the rest of us, there’s always the second leg to hope for something resembling ENTERTAINMENT.