Neil Johnston
BBC Sport at Villa Park

image source, Getty Images

Aston Villa's magical Champions League journey continued as they topped the table on another memorable European night to mark Unai Emery's second anniversary as manager.

Captain John McGinn, Villa's longest-serving player, set his side up against Bologna with a free-kick at roaring Villa Park.

McGinn's free kick from outside the box in the 55th minute evaded everyone in the penalty area – including Bologna goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski – and then ended up in the net.

The Italians were upset with Portuguese referee Joao Pinheiro as they felt they should have been awarded a free kick moments before.

Nine minutes later, Villa doubled their lead when Jhon Duran made his first start at Villa Park in 11 months by firing the ball home from close range – his seventh goal of the season.

It was his final touch as he was replaced by Ollie Watkins, who was waiting to come on as the Colombia striker scored. Duran showed his displeasure at being substituted by kicking the back of a seat in the dugout.

Having beaten Swiss Young Boys and heavyweights Bayern Munich earlier this season, Villa now have nine points from three games as Emery's side continue to navigate their return to European football's top club competition with ease.