After securing their third consecutive UEFA Champions League victory midweek, Villa started confidently, with Amadou Onana's close-range header brilliantly saved by Mark Travers and John McGinn’s curled shot ruled out by VAR for an offside in the build-up. Bournemouth, grateful for the reprieve, nearly struck first as Justin Kluivert's long-range effort was smartly saved by Emiliano Martinez. As the first half progressed, both teams continued to create chances, with the best opportunity falling to Ezri Konsa, whose powerful shot was expertly tipped around the post by the impressive Travers.