Youri Tielemans admits Aston Villa knew Bologna would ‘come man-to-man’ and praises Unai Emery, who ‘always challenges you to beat your opponent.’
Villa beat Bologna 2-0 in the Champions League Round 3 on Tuesday, leaving the Rossoblu with just one point in the table.
John McGinn and Jhon Duran provided the goals for the Premier League giants who have won three games from three in Europe’s elite competition.
Video: Tielemans admits Aston Villa predicted Bologna’s tactic
Speaking to TNT Sports about Villa’s tactics and Emery’s advice, Tielemans said: “He always challenges you to beat your opponents. Especially tonight against an opponent who played man-to-man, he really wanted us to beat our opponents and drive at their man. I think we did it really well tonight.
“We knew they were going to come man-to-man and we had to beat our opponent, whether it was a pass or a drive at their man,” he continued.
“I think we did really well. I like to break the lines with passes or beat my opponent.”
Duran, 20, has six goals in 11 appearances across all competitions this season.
“Duran has everything. He has technique, he can hold the ball and flick in the air,” continued the Belgian midfielder.
“He’s really good, an all-round striker. He’s young and can still improve in his game. Sometimes you see him when you got to switch him on a bit more.”