Aston Villa hosts Bologna in their opening Europa League group stage match. The hosts have been inconsistent in the Premier League, but remain a formidable force at Villa Park – their home matches are typically filled with scoring opportunities. The Italian visitors have been underperforming in Serie A, but their defensive discipline could be compromised in an away European fixture.
Aston Villa's recent statistics point to defensive issues – they have conceded in four of their last five matches. Bologna, meanwhile, has demonstrated an ability to score even against strong opponents, as evidenced by their goal against Milan.
Both teams have only recently begun playing in European competition, although the English club has a more extensive European history, and their home status gives Aston Villa a greater advantage.
