The first Italian derby in the Europa League between Bologna and Roma ended with a score of 1:1. The fate of advancing to the semifinals will be decided in the return leg, after both teams displayed an evenly matched level in a clash dubbed by the media as a 'Euroderby'.

Draw in the Euroderby

The match between Bologna and Roma ended with a score of 1:1, leaving the question of advancement open before the return leg.

Evenly matched battle

The Italian press described the match as a 'botta e risposta' (blow for blow), highlighting the intense exchange of blows on the pitch.

Aston Villa's success

In a parallel quarterfinal match, Aston Villa defeated Lille thanks to a goal by Ollie Watkins.

The first Italian derby in the Europa League between Bologna and Roma ended in a 1:1 draw. The match played on March 12, 2026, delivered the typical excitement of cup clashes between domestic rivals, with the final verdict on advancement only to be settled in the return leg. The hosts took the lead first, but the Romans managed to respond with an equalizing goal still in the same half of the match. The Euroderby did not produce a favorite ahead of the decisive clash, leaving both teams with equal chances to progress to the next round. The on-field rivalry was intense, as reported by the ANSA agency and the newspaper il Giornale. Europa League – First Leg 1/8 Final: Bologna FC 1:1 AS Roma

The course of the match confirmed the evenly matched level of both teams, which regularly compete at the top of the Italian Serie A. After a successful attack by Bologna gave them the lead, Roma intensified their offensive efforts, which quickly brought the desired result in the form of a goal. Italian media unanimously describe this clash as a battle in which neither side managed to establish a lasting tactical advantage. The 1:1 draw is considered a fair result, considering the number of scoring opportunities created by both teams. Bologna FC and AS Roma are historic Italian football clubs that have been rivals in the top division, Serie A, for decades. Italian clubs have a rich tradition of mutual clashes in European cups, and these matches are often referred to as Italian derbies on the international stage. The current edition of the Europa League is an opportunity for both teams to achieve a prestigious success following their successful group stage performances.

In the shadow of the Italian duel, other significant matches of the competition took place, including the Aston Villa vs. Lille match. The English team managed to secure a victory, with one of the key figures on the pitch being Ollie Watkins, who scored a goal for the Birmingham-based team. His strike significantly brought Aston Villa closer to advancement, contrasting with the unresolved result in Bologna. The Europa League evening showcased a wide variety of results, from hard-fought draws to modest but valuable wins for the favorites.

Mentioned People

  • Ollie Watkins — English footballer playing as a forward for Aston Villa, scorer of the goal in the match against Lille.