Europa League Quarterfinal Preview: Aston Villa Host Bologna with Key Injuries and Betting Odds

Aston Villa vs. Bologna: The Quarterfinal Clash

According to Главком: Aston Villa will host Bologna at Villa Park on April 16, 2026, in the first leg of their Europa League quarterfinal tie. This high-stakes European knockout match sees the English side enter as the bookmakers' favorite, based on recent form and squad availability. The Europa League represents a crucial opportunity for both clubs to secure continental silverware and prestige.

As of 1:15 PM on April 16th, the odds for an Aston Villa win are set at 1.55, while a Bologna victory is priced at 5.77. The odds for a draw stand at 4.40. Bookmakers have also assessed each team's probability of advancing to the semifinals:

• Aston Villa: 1.03
• Bologna: 12.30

The odds for the match to produce under 2.0 total goals are 3.43.

Squad Issues and Recent Form

Both sides are dealing with significant absences. Aston Villa will be without the injured midfielder Kamara and forward Alisson, though winger Sancho is nearing a return and could provide a boost. Bologna's squad is more depleted, with defender Lukumi suspended and goalkeeper Skorupski, along with forwards Dominguez and Dallinga, sidelined through injury.

The teams' form heading into the match differs. In the English Premier League, Aston Villa drew 1-1 with Nottingham Forest, with their goal coming from a Murillo own goal. Conversely, Bologna secured a 2-0 Serie A victory over Lecce, with goals from midfielder Freuler and winger Orsolini.

The recent head-to-head history heavily favors Aston Villa. Last season in the Champions League, Villa defeated Bologna in Birmingham with goals from midfielder McGinn and forward Duran. In a Europa League match the previous autumn, McGinn's solitary goal secured another Villa win. Just last week, Villa triumphed 3-1 away at Bologna, with a brace from forward Watkins and a goal from defender Konsa. Bologna's lone reply in that match came from winger Rowe.

The Aston Villa vs. Bologna match will be broadcast live on the Megogo media service, with coverage starting at 10:00 PM Kyiv time on the Megogo Football 4 channel. Fans of both clubs are eagerly anticipating what promises to be a tense and compelling encounter.

This Europa League quarterfinal is a pivotal stage for both Aston Villa and Bologna as they aim to continue their journey toward the final. Aston Villa, holding a psychological edge from previous meetings, will look to leverage their home advantage for a commanding first-leg result. Meanwhile, Bologna, despite their injury woes, will be determined to showcase their quality and spring a surprise. The outcome of this tie could significantly shape the European trajectory of both teams this season.

As the Europa League quarterfinals progress, Aston Villa's recent performance has been impressive, especially following their commanding victory over Bologna. This win not only boosts their confidence but also highlights their potential to advance further in the tournament. For a detailed analysis of that match and its implications for the ongoing competition, check out our coverage of Aston Villa's dominant showing in the Europa League.