A resolute defensive performance earned Sassuolo a point on the road Monday, battling to a 1-1 draw against Bologna in Serie A action. Jay Idzes and tarik Muharemovic formed a formidable partnership at the back for the visitors, helping to secure a result against a Bologna side pushing for European qualification. The draw leaves both teams looking to build momentum during a crucial stretch of the season [[1]].
Bologna –
Sassuolo earned a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Bologna in their Serie A clash on Monday, December 29, 2025, thanks in large part to the burgeoning partnership between defenders Jay Idzes and Tarik Muharemovic. The result sees both teams maintain their positions in a tightly contested league table.
Bologna dominated possession with 56% of the ball and registered 16 shots, five of which were on target, but Sassuolo’s resolute defense proved difficult to break down at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara.
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Idzes, captain of the Indonesian national team, showcased his defensive prowess with a crucial goal-line clearance in the first half, denying Bologna the lead.
Muharemovic, a Bosnian and Herzegovina international, leveled the score for Sassuolo with a goal from a corner kick.
Sassuolo head coach Fabio Grosso lauded the performance of his central defensive pairing, recognizing their significant contribution to the team’s overall display.
“The central corridor played a top-level game. Both central defenders, the midfielders, and Pinamonti, in my opinion, played well. When you are strong in the middle, the central corridor can move everything forward,” Grosso said after the match, as reported by Sassuolonews.
Idzes has quickly established himself as a key figure alongside Muharemovic since joining Sassuolo during the summer 2025 transfer window, forming an integral part of the team’s backline.
Sassuolonews described the duo as a ‘Neapolitan Mastiff’ – a reference to the large and imposing Italian guard dog breed – highlighting their strength and reliability in protecting Sassuolo’s penalty area.
(bay/aff)
