Aston Villa close in on Europa League last four

Aston Villa moved to the brink of the Europa League semi‑finals with a composed 3–1 victory in Bologna, a result built on Ezri Konsa’s timely header and an assured Ollie Watkins double. Unai Emery’s men, chasing their first major silverware in three decades, absorbed long spells of pressure as Bologna struck the woodwork twice and saw a potential opener ruled out for offside.

Konsa’s goal on the cusp of half‑time halted the hosts’ momentum, and Watkins capitalised on a defensive lapse early in the second period to strengthen Villa’s grip. Jonathan Rowe’s late strike briefly revived Bologna hopes, only for Watkins to restore the two‑goal cushion deep into stoppage time. Villa, who have beaten Bologna repeatedly in recent seasons, now return to Birmingham with a commanding advantage and the prospect of facing Porto or Nottingham Forest in the last four should they finish the job.