Aston Villa delivered a commanding performance, securing a decisive 3-0 victory over Bologna in a match that showcased their attacking prowess from the opening whistle.

The tone was set immediately as Ollie Watkins broke the deadlock just one minute in. A sharp team move was finished by the striker, who slotted a right-footed shot home from close range after a clever assist from Morgan Rogers. This marked Watkins' fourth goal in the competition, a testament to his clinical form.

Villa's dominance continued, and the lead was doubled before halftime. Emiliano Buendía, finding space in a tight angle on the left, unleashed a superb right-footed strike into the far corner, courtesy of a pinpoint cross from Lucas Digne. It was a moment of individual quality for Buendía's second goal of the tournament.

Any hope of a Bologna comeback was extinguished in the second half. The provider turned scorer as Morgan Rogers capped an excellent personal display, cutting inside from the left and firing a precise left-footed finish into the net to make it 3-0. Rogers' goal, his second in the competition, sealed a comprehensive and stylish win for Unai Emery's side.