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Vincenzo Italiano denies reports Jens Odgaard had been ‘forgotten’ at Bologna after a sensational strike to give them a fifth consecutive victory against Pisa.
The Rossoblu had been in disastrous form to begin 2026, but seem to have really turned a corner of late, as this 1-0 result at the Cetilar Arena this evening was their fifth win on the bounce in all competition.
PISA, ITALY – MARCH 2: Santiago Castro of Bologna FC 1909 reacts during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and Bologna FC 1909 at Arena Garibaldi on March 2, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“Our first half was excellent, and Santiago Castro had two big chances where we could’ve scored,” said Italiano in his press conference.
“After the break, there was some inevitable fatigue, but we also know that everyone has been made to suffer for results here. We’ve got a long way to go, but we hold on to this win, the third in a row in Serie A, and want to continue along this path.”
Bologna were in action on Thursday in the Europa League play-off, where they eliminated SK Brann to set up a Round of 16 showdown with fellow Italians Roma.
Bologna finding their form at last
PISA, ITALY – MARCH 2: Jens Odgaard of Bologna FC 1909 scores a goal (not of FC Internazionale picture) during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and Bologna FC 1909 at Arena Garibaldi on March 2, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“With such an intense fixture list, we need everyone in the squad to give their contribution,” continued Italiano.
“Riccardo Orsolini had a good impact off the bench, I liked his attitude. Federico Bernardeschi and Niccolò Cambiaghi both know they can be more effective, but it went alright today.”
There had been reports in recent months that Odgaard was no longer first choice for Italiano, putting his future at Bologna in doubt, but the coach shrugs off these suggestions.
PISA, ITALY – MARCH 2: Jens Odgaard of Bologna FC 1909 celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and Bologna FC 1909 at Arena Garibaldi on March 2, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“Odgaard proved once again how decisive he can be in that position. He knows that when he is called upon, he has to give his contribution. I certainly haven’t forgotten about him, we just needed to rest him a little.
“We’re going to have to do the same with Castro soon, I am worried with the amount he is playing, he might get hurt.”
Bologna were forced into two changes today, the first when Martin Vitik was left dazed after charging down a powerful shot with his face.
“Vitik and Joao Mario both had bruises to their knees,” insisted Italiano.