Bologna face 'superlative' task in Europa League, says Italiano
Bologna manager Vincenzo Italiano has admitted his side face a monumental task as they prepare to host Aston Villa in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final on Thursday, describing the tie as a 'fifty-fifty' proposition. The Serie A side, who are competing in Europe for the first time in over two decades, will host the Premier League side at the Stadio Dall'Ara in the first leg of their last-eight tie.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Italiano acknowledged the challenge posed by the Premier League side. "It's complicated, there's no doubt," Italiano said. "We have to put our qualities on the pitch. The first leg is extremely important. We have to play our chances from the start." He described the tie as a 'fifty-fifty' contest, despite the perceived gap in resources between the clubs.
A key subplot for Bologna will be the form of star striker Joshua Zirkzee, who has struggled for goals in recent weeks. "Castro is a bit lacking in lucidity lately, but I know the goal will come," Italiano said, using the Dutchman's nickname. "Because sooner or later, the god of football rewards you." The manager also highlighted the threat of Aston Villa's set-pieces and the individual quality in Unai Emery's squad, calling for a "superlative" performance from his team.
Bologna's European run has been a historic one, and they advanced to this stage after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Roma in the previous round. The atmosphere at the sold-out Stadio Dall'Ara is expected to be a major factor. "The great anticipation from the people demonstrates many things, and we must be proud of it," Italiano said, acknowledging the historic support. He added that with the fans, his team can bridge the gap against a side that is "undoubtedly stronger than us."
Aston Villa, managed by four-time Europa League winner Unai Emery, are heavy favourites. Italiano, however, has a strong record in two-legged ties, having won 11 of his 12 such contests as a manager. He will need that experience against an Aston Villa side sitting in the Premier League's top four. Bologna captain Lewis Ferguson, a former Aberdeen player, also acknowledged the threat of his international teammate and Villa captain John McGinn, calling him an "incredibly strong player and a symbol" for his club and country.
The tie represents a classic clash of European football's current financial and competitive realities, pitting a resurgent Italian side enjoying a dream season against a Premier League giant. The first leg at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara kicks off at 21:00 CET on Thursday.
