Sassuolo Coach Eusebio Di Francesco found it “paradoxical” they held out better in defence when moving to 4-2-4 in Bologna.

For the fifth time in the last six games, the Neroverdi conceded a goal within 10 minutes, but Alessandro Matri got a late 1-1 draw.

“We mustn’t forget where we came from and how we got into Europe,” Di Francesco told Sky Sport Italia.

Sassuolo Coach Eusebio Di Francesco found it “paradoxical” they held out better in defence when moving to 4-2-4 in Bologna.

For the fifth time in the last six games, the Neroverdi conceded a goal within 10 minutes, but Alessandro Matri got a late 1-1 draw.

“We mustn’t forget where we came from and how we got into Europe,” Di Francesco told Sky Sport Italia.

“Our fitness levels meant we suffered with the high tempo Bologna set at the start and the quality of their passing. When we lost Francesco Magnanelli too, it all went wrong.

“In the second half we moved to 4-2-4 and paradoxically we had fewer problems at the back, so were able to get back into the game.

“I liked the way Sassuolo played in the final 15 minutes. We should’ve been more tired at the end, but instead we increased the pressure. The tactical system perhaps helped a great deal.”

This was billed as the family derby, as Federico Di Francesco plays for Bologna, but the striker only came on to face his Dad for the final few minutes.

“I was afraid he was going to score the decisive goal,” smiled Eusebio. “He seemed a little nervous when he came on. Maybe it’s because I was there…”

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