Bologna are showing decent form in the Europa League (a record 11 matches unbeaten in the competition), but they're struggling in Serie A and are far from the European competition zones. Aston Villa, on the other hand, are challenging for a top-five finish in the Premier League and are confidently heading into the Europa League, having won every playoff match. However, the Lions have been inconsistent on the road, with just one win in their last four away matches.
Both teams regularly score and concede. Bologna have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last three home matches, while Villa are on a five-game scoring streak. It's also worth noting personnel issues: the hosts have lost their starting goalkeeper, Skorupski, and several rotation players, while the visitors have lost Sancho and Kamara. Aston Villa has won both of their head-to-head matches with clean sheets (2-0 and 1-0).
Despite their head-to-head history, the current form of both teams suggests this match will be a goal-scoring affair. Bologna will be attacking at home, looking to secure a positive result before the return leg. Villa, on the other hand, are very effective on the counterattack and are sure to capitalize on scoring chances, so a bet on both teams to score seems the most logical.
