Aston Villa extended their perfect start to the UEFA Champions League with a commanding 2-0 victory against Bologna. Goals from captain John McGinn and rising star Jhon Duran secured the win, keeping Villa undefeated and at the top of the table with nine points from three matches.
The first half saw Villa dominate possession and create several chances, with McGinn, Duran, and Morgan Rogers all testing Bologna goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski, who stood firm to deny the hosts. Despite the pressure, Villa were unable to break through, and the first 45 minutes ended goalless.
Villa’s breakthrough came early in the second half when McGinn whipped a free-kick into the box, evading everyone and finding the back of the net. The goal stood after a brief VAR check for a possible handball, giving Villa the lead they deserved. Moments later, Rogers delivered a perfect cross for Duran, who flicked the ball past the Bologna defense and into the bottom corner, doubling Villa’s advantage.
The win cements Villa’s place at the top of the Champions League league phase, leaving them as the only team with a perfect record. Duran’s goal continues his impressive form, and though he was visibly frustrated when substituted immediately after, manager Unai Emery praised his performance, acknowledging the striker’s desire for more.
Bologna, meanwhile, struggled to threaten Villa’s goal, with their best chance coming early in the match when Thijs Dallinga forced a save from Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez. The Italian side remains winless in the group, sitting at just one point from three matches.
Aston Villa will face Club Brugge in their next Champions League fixture, while Bologna will look to regroup against Monaco. Villa’s dream return to Europe’s elite competition continues to gain momentum as they eye a deep run in the tournament.
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