After 44 years, Aston Villa are back in a European final, with Emiliano Martínez and Emiliano Buendía playing key roles in their impressive run
Aston Villa secured a dominant 4-0 victory over Nottingham Forest at Villa Park to book their place in the Europa League final, where they will face Freiburg in Istanbul.
Having lost the first leg 1-0, Villa needed a strong response at home and delivered in style. Nottingham Forest started Nicolás Domínguez in midfield, but the hosts gradually took control of the tie after breaking the deadlock.
Just before halftime, Buendía produced a fine move before setting up Ollie Watkins, who scored to level the tie on aggregate and swing momentum firmly in Villa’s favour.
In the second half, Villa pushed further and Buendía added a second goal from the penalty spot, giving the Premier League side full control of the semifinal.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez had a quiet night with little action, but still played his part as Villa secured a place in their first continental final since 1982.
Buendía’s strong finish to the season continues to boost his profile as he pushes for a spot in Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Big Brother Naija 2018 ex-housemate, Ahneeka has finally opened up on the viral video where she seemed to be...
Renowned American rapper Nayvadius DeMun Cash, popularly known as Future, has expressed deep regret over his past treatment of women, citing a...
Cristiano Ronaldo has made history once again, breaking the record for the most goals in a Saudi Pro League...