Vardy’s Brace Guides Cremonese to Stunning 3-1 Win Over Bologna

Jamie Vardy continued his late-career adventure in Italy by scoring his first Serie A brace, helping Cremonese secure a remarkable 3-1 win at Bologna.

The former Leicester City and England striker demonstrated his timeless finishing ability with two clinical goals, one before and one after half-time, as promoted Cremonese, sitting 11th with 17 points, handed Bologna their first home defeat of the season.

Bologna had the chance to move closer to league leaders AC Milan and Napoli but were denied by 38-year-old Vardy on a wet evening at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara.

“I think we were just missing a bit of rain; it felt like a typical midweek in the UK,” joked Vardy after ending Cremonese’s three-game losing streak. “The most important thing was securing the three points and keeping our progress going. It’s all about commitment and giving your best for the club.”

Cremonese took the lead in the 31st minute through Martin Payero before Vardy doubled the advantage with a near-identical strike five minutes later. Bologna briefly responded with a stoppage-time penalty from Riccardo Orsolini, but Vardy quickly restored the two-goal lead early in the second half, bringing his Cremonese tally to four goals in nine matches.

Coach Davide Nicola praised Vardy, calling it a “privilege” to have him in the squad. “Great players are easy to manage; they know their roles and execute them perfectly. Vardy’s mentality and team spirit make him a valuable asset.”

Vardy joined Cremonese in September on a one-year deal, with an option for a second season if the club remains in Serie A. The striker has expressed his desire to embrace a new footballing culture, joining a team supported by Italian billionaire Giovanni Arvedi.