Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest set up an all-English Europa League semi-final after impressive quarter-final victories on Thursday.
Villa swept aside Bologna with a dominant 4-0 win at Villa Park, completing a commanding 7-1 aggregate triumph, while Forest edged FC Porto 1-0 to secure a 2-1 aggregate victory.
Aston Villa Beat Bologna
Under Unai Emery, Aston Villa once again showcased their European pedigree. Ollie Watkins opened the scoring in style, finishing off a slick 14-pass move for his 100th goal for the club. Despite Morgan Rogers missing a penalty, Villa remained in control as Emiliano Buendia and Rogers himself added further goals before Ezri Konsa capped the rout late on.
Reflecting on the performance, captain John McGinn said: “We needed to get the first
goal, it was very important. They are a dangerous team away from home,” before adding, “A great first half gets us to a semi-final, I’m delighted.”
Nottingham Forest Beat FC Porto
At the City Ground, Nottingham Forest capitalised on an early red card for Porto defender Jan Bednarek, who was sent off for a reckless challenge. Morgan Gibbs-White scored the decisive goal, his deflected effort finding the net in the 12th minute. His emotional celebration, holding up a shirt for team-mate Elliot Anderson, underlined the occasion. Porto remained dangerous despite being a man down, hitting the woodwork twice, but Forest held firm to reach their first European semi-final since 1984.
Forest boss Vitor Pereira praised his side, saying: “The club and the supporters deserve it. I have a fantastic team. They have the spirit, character and quality,” before adding, “It’s too much to think Villa now. I will think about it after Burnley this weekend.”
Freiburg To Face Braga
Elsewhere in the Europa League, SC Freiburg advanced to their first European semi-final with a 6-1 aggregate win over Celta Vigo, setting up a clash with Sporting Braga, who staged a comeback against Real Betis.
(With inputs from Agencies)
