Aston Villa confirmed their place in an all-English Europa League semi-final against Nottingham Forest with an emphatic 7-1 aggregate triumph over Bologna at Villa Park. Holding a 3-1 advantage from the first leg, Unai Emery’s side delivered another authoritative performance to underline their status as favourites and move closer to ending a 30-year wait for silverware.
The hosts wasted little time extending their lead, striking after just 16 minutes. Ollie Watkins, who had been decisive in Italy, capped off a flowing move involving nine players to register his 100th goal for the club in all competitions. The early breakthrough effectively ended any hopes of a Bologna comeback.
Although Morgan Rogers saw his penalty saved by Federico Ravaglia following a handball by Martin Vitik, Villa responded almost instantly. Just 44 seconds later, Emiliano Buendia capitalised on hesitant defending to convert Lucas Digne’s long throw, adding his second European goal of the campaign.
Rogers soon made amends for his earlier miss, finishing from a tight angle with his weaker foot after being picked out by captain John McGinn, bringing an end to his 11-match scoring drought. Ezri Konsa then completed the scoring late on, volleying in from a corner to secure a comprehensive victory.
Watkins reaches milestone as Villa show attacking strength
Much of Villa’s groundwork had been laid in the first leg, where a 3-1 win in Italy put them firmly in control. Watkins played a central role in that success, scoring twice, including a crucial stoppage-time goal, and he once again set the tone in the return fixture.
His opener not only eased any lingering nerves but also marked a significant personal achievement. Watkins became the 11th player in the club’s history to reach 100 goals and the first since 1962 to hit that landmark. He also moved to the top of Villa’s scoring charts in major European competitions with 10 goals.
Since making his debut in September 2020, only Mohamed Salah and Erling Haaland have scored more goals in all competitions, highlighting Watkins’ consistency. With five goals in seven matches in this tournament, his performances continue to strengthen his case for inclusion in England’s World Cup squad.
Villa’s attacking efficiency has been a defining feature of their European run, with the team rarely needing to exert maximum effort. Apart from a narrow defeat in the Netherlands, their campaign has been near flawless, including a strong league phase and a comfortable aggregate win over Lille in the previous round.
Emery’s side-eye historic continental success
Against Bologna, Villa elevated their level even further. Facing the Coppa Italia holders, managed by Vincenzo Italiano, they controlled proceedings from start to finish, showing composure at the back and sharpness in attack.
Jonathan Rowe had posed problems in the first encounter, but this time Villa dealt confidently with any threat, limiting Bologna’s opportunities while maintaining their own attacking pressure. The balance between defensive discipline and offensive quality was evident throughout the match.
The return of John McGinn added energy and leadership in midfield, while Rogers rediscovered his scoring touch. Combined with Watkins’ continued form, Villa appear well-equipped to go all the way in the competition.
Their reward is a semi-final clash with Nottingham Forest, with the first leg set for 30 April in Nottingham and the second leg on 7 May in Birmingham. Meanwhile, Braga will face Freiburg in the other tie as Villa pursue their first major European trophy since 1982.