The first leg of the 2025/26 Europa League quarter-finals was exciting and full of surprises, with Aston Villa making a strong impression.
The first leg of the 2025/26 Europa League quarter-finals witnessed a series of exciting and unexpected developments, with the highlight being Aston Villa's impressive victory on Italian soil.
On Bologna's home ground, the English team faced considerable difficulties in the first half, under pressure from the home side. However, the turning point came in the 44th minute when Konsa capitalized on an opportunity to open the scoring for Aston Villa. This goal relieved the pressure on the visitors and allowed them to play with more confidence in the second half.
In the 51st minute, Ollie Watkins doubled the lead with a precise finish. Bologna tried to fight back and pulled one back through J. Rowe, but their hopes were dashed when Watkins completed his brace in the 90+4 minute, sealing a 3-1 victory for Aston Villa.
In another match, FC Porto disappointed by drawing 1-1 at home against Nottingham Forest, giving the Premier League side the advantage going into the second leg.
Meanwhile, Freiburg have virtually secured a place in the semi-finals after a convincing 3-0 victory over Celta Vigo. The Bundesliga representatives demonstrated complete dominance and hold a significant advantage.
Earlier, the match between Real Betis and SC Braga was also dramatic. Betis avoided defeat thanks to a successful penalty by Cucho Hernandez in the 61st minute, giving them a slight advantage going into the second leg at home.