**Aston Villa 2-0 Bologna: Game Recap**

ZAGO 𝕸𝖊𝖉𝖎𝖆

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Post on Oct 23, 2024

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Aston Villa Dominates Bologna in Pre-Season Friendly

Aston Villa kicked off their pre-season campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over Bologna at the Reggio Emilia Stadium on July 22nd. The game served as a valuable test for Unai Emery's side as they prepare for the upcoming Premier League season.

A Dominant First Half Performance

Villa started the game with a clear intent to impose themselves on Bologna. The early stages saw a flurry of attacks, with Leon Bailey and Moussa Diaby proving particularly dangerous on the flanks. It was Bailey who broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute, showcasing his clinical finishing ability with a well-taken shot from inside the box.

The lead was doubled just six minutes later as Ollie Watkins found the back of the net following a clever pass from John McGinn. Watkins' goal was a testament to his clinical finishing and movement in the final third.

Second Half Adjustments and a Comfortable Win

The second half saw Aston Villa manager Unai Emery make several substitutions, bringing on several players looking to impress. The game became more evenly contested, but Bologna failed to create any significant chances. Despite the change in intensity, Aston Villa remained composed and maintained control of the game, ultimately securing a comfortable win.

Key Takeaways from the Game

• Attacking Prowess: The performance highlighted Villa's potent attacking force, particularly on the wings. Bailey and Diaby's pace and trickery were a constant threat to the Bologna defense.
• Midfield Dominance: John McGinn played a pivotal role in controlling the midfield battle, dictating the tempo of the game and providing key passes for his teammates.
• Defensive Solidity: The backline, led by the experienced Ezri Konsa, looked solid and organized, limiting Bologna to very few opportunities.

Looking Ahead

The victory over Bologna will be a confidence boost for Aston Villa as they continue their preparations for the upcoming season. With a strong squad and a manager who demands the highest standards, Villa will be looking to build on last season's successes and challenge for a place in the top half of the Premier League. Their pre-season tour will provide further opportunities for players to gain fitness and sharpness ahead of the new campaign.