ROME — In a thrilling Serie A match, Bologna faced a tough defeat at home against Verona, ending the game 3-2. Benjamín Domínguez was the highlight for Bologna, netting two goals in the 20th and 58th minutes. However, the situation turned dire for the hosts when Tommaso Pobega received a red card early in the second half for a violent off-the-ball incident, significantly altering the course of the game.

Verona found its footing with two goals from Amir Sarr and Casper Tengstedt, which kept the contest competitive. Just as Bologna seemed to be rallying after Domínguez’s second goal, the red card proved costly, hindering their chances of a comeback. In a dramatic conclusion, a free-kick from Ondrej Duda deflected off Santiago Castro, leading to an unfortunate own-goal that clinched a victory for Verona with only three minutes remaining.

The loss dealt a significant blow to Bologna’s ambitions of finishing in a European qualifying position, leaving them in seventh place, four points shy of Juventus. Meanwhile, this victory allowed Verona to create a crucial four-point buffer over the relegation zone, providing them with some breathing room in the league.

In another match on the same day, Como triumphed over Lecce with a 2-0 scoreline. Nico Paz initially had a disappointing first half, missing a penalty saved by Wladimiro Falcone. However, he redeemed himself shortly after the break by scoring in the 50th minute with a precise strike from just outside the box. Patrick Cutrone, who came close to scoring earlier by hitting the bar, added a second goal in the 80th minute after capitalizing on a rebound in the box.

This victory marked Como’s first league win against Lecce since 1994, propelling them to 15th place, just above Lecce by two points. The match represented a resurgence for Como, who will be eager to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures.