Aston Villa seized a 3-1 advantage in the Europa League quarter‑final first leg at Bologna, moving the tie firmly into their favour. England internationals Ezri Konsa and Ollie Watkins each struck, while a disallowed own‑goal and a missed chance kept the Serie A side from opening the scoring. Villa’s set‑piece precision proved decisive.

Before the breakthrough Bologna boasted a 20‑game unbeaten European run at home and were the first Italian club to reach a continental quarter‑final. Their early dominance saw shots ricochet off the woodwork and a VAR‑overturned goal, but goalkeeper Federico Ravaglia’s mis‑judged decision to leave his line gifted Konsa an easy header. Unai Emery’s side eventually weathered the pressure, turning defence into attack through Tielemans’ creativity.

After half‑time Watkins doubled the lead with a finish, capitalising on a Bologna clearance. Jonathan Rowe later pulled one back, curling a strike past Emiliano Martínez, yet his effort hit the post and corner saw Watkins tap in a third. Villa’s midfield, anchored by John McGinn, controlled possession, limiting Bologna to 19 shots. Villa head to Birmingham with cushion, leaving Bologna to chase a comeback.