The Europa League quarter-final lineup has been confirmed, with Braga, Real Betis, Freiburg, Celta Vigo, Porto, Nottingham Forest, Bologna and Aston Villa all learning their path to the final in Istanbul.
On one side of the bracket, Portuguese outfit Braga will face La Liga’s Real Betis, while Freiburg take on fellow Spanish side Celta Vigo in a tie that guarantees a Bundesliga–La Liga presence in the semi-finals. The winners of those two ties will meet for a place in the showpiece final in Istanbul, adding extra weight to every moment over the two legs.
On the other side, Portuguese giants Porto have been paired with Premier League side Nottingham Forest in a clash of European traditions and contrasting styles. Bologna, enjoying a resurgent campaign, will battle Aston Villa, who continue their impressive European run under Unai Emery, for the right to face the winner of Porto vs Nottingham Forest in the last four.
With the bracket now locked in and the road to Istanbul clearly mapped, all eight clubs will begin intensive preparations as they chase continental glory and a coveted European trophy.
