Aston Villa secured a 2-0 victory against Bologna in their UEFA Champions League match at Villa Park on Tuesday, 22nd October 2024. This win marked Villa's third consecutive victory in the competition, leaving Unai Emery's side at the top of the Champions League standings.
John McGinn returned to the starting line-up and opened the scoring with a long-range free-kick in the 55th minute, a goal that, despite its spectacular sound, was somewhat fortunate as it evaded all players and curled into the net. Nine minutes later, Jhon Duran, marking his first Champions League start, doubled Villa's lead with a neat finish at the near post. Duran's goal against Bologna brought his total to seven goals in all competitions this season.
The match began as an end-to-end affair, with Bologna's Thijs Dallinga coming closest to scoring for the visitors, only to be denied by Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. Following this scare, Villa began to dominate the game, with several attempts on goal from both Duran and McGinn before the break.
Villa became only the third team in the current Champions League format to win their opening three games without conceding a goal. Sky Sports reported that this victory highlights the depth and strength of Villa's squad, particularly after recent injury concerns.
Following the match, Aston Villa captain John McGinn commented, "We don't want to stop here. It puts us in a great position. Some players are back and now we look really strong." He was joined by Jhon Duran as the standout performer, having been named Man of the Match.
Villa's squad depth was evident, as McGinn's return boosted the team's performance, while Ross Barkley's introduction at half-time added further impetus. Long-term absentee Boubacar Kamara also made his first appearance since February, reinforcing the team as they approach the critical stages of the season.
As Aston Villa continue their Champions League campaign, the focus remains on maintaining their momentum and capitalising on their strong start.