By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Kenya, April 10, 2026 - Aston Villa produced a ruthless away performance to defeat Bologna 3-1, while Nottingham Forest battled to a hard-fought draw against Porto in a dramatic night of UEFA Europa League quarter-final action on April 9, 2026.
At the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara, Aston Villa showed clinical efficiency to overcome Bologna despite being second-best for large spells. The breakthrough came just before half-time in the 44th minute, when Ezri Konsa rose highest to head home from a corner, giving Villa the lead with their first real chance of the match.
Villa extended their advantage early in the second half. In the 51st minute, Ollie Watkins capitalized on a defensive error to calmly slot home and make it 2-0, putting Unai Emery’s side firmly in control.
Bologna pushed hard to get back into the game and were rewarded late on. In the 90th minute, Jonathan Rowe curled in a fine strike to reduce the deficit and give the Italian side hope heading into the second leg.
However, Villa had the final say. Deep into stoppage time (90+ minutes), Watkins struck again, this time heading in to restore the two-goal cushion and seal a convincing 3-1 away victory.
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Meanwhile, in Portugal, Nottingham Forest were held to a 1-1 draw by FC Porto in the first leg of their quarter-final clash. Porto struck early through William Gomes in the 11th minute, putting the hosts ahead. But Forest responded almost immediately, benefiting from an own goal by defender Martim Fernandes, who inadvertently turned the ball into his own net under pressure.
Despite chances on both sides, neither team could find a winner, leaving the tie finely balanced heading into the return leg in England.
It was a strong night for English clubs in Europe. Aston Villa now hold a commanding advantage as they look to reach the semi-finals, while Nottingham Forest remain well in contention after securing a valuable away draw.
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