After 20,000 simulations, the supercomputer has produced a shocking scoreline prediction for Celtic FC vs Bologna and its terrible
After 20,000 simulations, a supercomputer has produced a notable prediction for Celtic’s upcoming European encounter with Bologna at the Renato Dall’Ara. The model processed a wide range of variables, including tactical structures, recent performances, squad depth and historical away form, to project how the contest is most likely to develop.
Bologna’s home advantage and disciplined approach were central to the analysis. The Italian side are expected to control possession for extended periods and apply sustained pressure, particularly in the early stages. However, the data also highlights Celtic’s ability to remain competitive in demanding away environments, especially when matches become stretched and transitional.
The simulations most frequently pointed towards a 3–2 victory for Celtic, indicating a closely fought, high-scoring contest rather than a one-sided affair. The outcome appeared consistently across the 20,000 runs, suggesting that fine margins, rather than overall dominance, are likely to define the match.
One of the strongest indicators in Celtic’s favour was the influence of interim manager O’Neill. The supercomputer identified his understanding of game flow and in-match problem solving as a decisive factor in tight fixtures, particularly away from home.
According to the analysis, Celtic’s win probability increased in scenarios where O’Neill made early and effective adjustments. These included altering pressing intensity, reshaping the midfield during periods of pressure, and introducing players capable of changing the tempo of the game.
The model also suggested that O’Neill’s player selection was well suited to this type of contest. In simulations where Celtic balanced defensive discipline with quick attacking transitions, they were more successful at limiting Bologna’s control and creating clear scoring opportunities.
A demanding night in Bologna
The data suggests Bologna are likely to enjoy periods of dominance, particularly through structured build-up play and midfield control. Playing at the Renato Dall’Ara was shown to influence early momentum, with home sides starting strongly in a high percentage of simulations.
However, the analysis also identified vulnerabilities when Bologna commit numbers forward. Celtic were repeatedly able to exploit space in wide areas and during defensive transitions, particularly when possession was turned over in advanced positions.
Celtic’s resilience was a recurring theme. When able to withstand early pressure, the simulations showed them growing into the contest, forcing Bologna to defend deeper and creating opportunities through quick passing sequences and overlapping runs.
Set pieces emerged as a key battleground. Celtic were assigned a higher probability of scoring from corners and second balls, while Bologna were more dependent on sustained pressure and combination play in the final third.
Fatigue played an important role in the later stages of matches. The supercomputer showed that defensive concentration tended to drop as intensity increased, leading to a higher frequency of late goals.
O’Neill’s use of substitutions was repeatedly linked to positive outcomes. In scenarios where Celtic refreshed midfield and wide areas late in the game, they were better equipped to maintain tempo and limit Bologna’s attacking momentum.
Discipline was another decisive factor. Conceding fouls in dangerous areas or losing shape during transitions significantly altered match outcomes in closely contested simulations.
Beyond the data
Despite the depth of the analysis, the limitations of predictive modelling remain clear. Football continues to be shaped by moments that data cannot fully capture, from individual brilliance to refereeing decisions and unexpected tactical shifts.
Those behind the model were keen to stress that the projection should not be viewed as a certainty. However, the consistency of the outcome across such a large number of simulations adds intrigue to the fixture.
If the analysis proves accurate, supporters can expect an open, competitive encounter in Bologna one shaped by tactical awareness, intelligent decision-making, and fine margins that could swing the contest either way.
