Aston Villa Defeat Bologna 3-1 in Europa League QF 1st Leg

Aston Villa FC secured a valuable 3-1 victory over hosts Bologna FC 1909 on Thursday evening in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League quarterfinal clash.

Villa took the lead late in the first half through defender Ezri Konsa, who found the net in the 44th minute to give the visitors a 1-0 advantage at the break.

The English side extended their lead early in the second half when striker Ollie Watkins scored in the 51st minute, putting Aston Villa firmly in control of the match.

Bologna managed to pull one back in the closing stages through Jonathan Rowe, who scored in the 90th minute to keep the Italian side’s hopes alive.

However, Watkins struck again deep into stoppage time to seal the win and complete his brace, giving Aston Villa a strong advantage heading into the second leg.

The return fixture between the two teams is scheduled to take place next Thursday at Villa Park, home of Aston Villa, where the English club will look to secure qualification to the semifinals.