Emery Hails “Fantastic” Villa Result After First-Leg Win Over Bologna

Aston Villa F.C. manager Unai Emery described his side’s 3–1 victory over Bologna F.C. 1909 in the Europa League quarter-final first leg as a “fantastic result”, despite acknowledging inconsistencies in performance.

Villa endured sustained pressure in the first half, with Bologna seeing a goal ruled out for offside and striking the crossbar, but the visitors held firm before Ezri Konsa headed them into the lead just before half-time.

Ollie Watkins extended the advantage early in the second half, before Bologna briefly reduced the deficit through Jonathan Rowe. However, Watkins struck again in stoppage time to restore Villa’s two-goal cushion ahead of the return leg at Villa Park.

Emery admitted his side struggled to impose themselves in the opening period but praised their response after the break, particularly their ability to regain control and finish strongly.

Watkins, who now has 12 goals in all competitions this season, acknowledged Villa were under pressure but stressed the importance of the result, describing the win as a major boost heading into the second leg.

Despite being second best in several statistical areas, Villa now take a healthy advantage into the return fixture, where they will aim to secure a place in the semi-finals.