Moments after John McGinn put Aston Villa ahead, the scoreboards malfunctioned, showing a 3-0 lead over Bologna due to a rapid hat-trick by their captain. This brief fantasy was quickly dispelled as Unai Emery's team solidified their position at the top of the revamped Champions League, boasting a perfect record after three matches. McGinn's direct free-kick goal was followed by Jhon Durán's seventh goal of the season, marking a rare start for the striker. Despite the euphoria, Durán's night ended on a sour note when he was substituted, expressing his frustration by kicking a dugout chair. Amadou Onana and a staff member tried to calm him down, but Durán left the field visibly upset.
Boubacar Kamara made his return after a long injury layoff, and Sam Beukema's shot hit the woodwork for Bologna, but Villa's victory was never in doubt after McGinn's opening goal. The pre-match festivities, including pyrotechnics and a giant tifo banner, set the stage for another memorable night. Durán, who had been waiting for this moment since his days in Medellín, scored his second goal of the night, sealing the victory. Tyrone Mings also had a significant night, returning to the match-day squad after a long injury absence.
The first half saw Villa's Morgan Rogers narrowly miss a goal, and Emiliano Martínez made a crucial save. Unai Emery's tactical changes at halftime included bringing on Ross Barkley, and Villa continued to dominate in the second half. McGinn's free-kick and Durán's second goal ensured Villa's comfortable lead. Samuel Iling-Junior, on loan from Villa, made a late appearance to the cheers of the crowd, highlighting Villa's triumphant return to the big stage.
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