Aston Villa delivered an outstanding performance, winning away against Bologna in the 2025-26 Europa League quarterfinals first leg, greatly improving their chances to reach the semifinals.
In the first leg of the 2025-26 Europa League quarterfinals on Thursday night, 9 April 2026 GMT+7, the notable match featured Bologna hosting the visiting "Villains," Aston Villa.
In the first half at the 44th minute, Aston Villa took the lead 1-0 as Youri Tielemans delivered a left-side cross into the penalty area, where Ezri Konsa headed the ball into the net. The half ended with this score.
In the second half, at the 50th minute, Aston Villa extended their lead to 2-0 when Ollie Watkins drove into the box and struck the ball into the far post.
Then, at the 89th minute, Bologna narrowed the gap to 1-2 when Jonathan Rowe advanced down the left, cut inside, and curled a right-footed shot into the far post beautifully.
During injury time at 90+4 minutes, Aston Villa increased their lead to 3-1. Youri Tielemans swung a left-side corner, reaching Ollie Watkins, who finished with a close-range shot. The match ended with Aston Villa winning 3-1 away at Bologna.
For the second leg of the quarterfinals, Aston Villa will return home to Villa Park to host Bologna on Thursday, 16 April.