Aston Villa nearly pulled off a historic comeback at Villa Park after trailing 3-1 from the first leg against Paris Saint-Germain. Despite falling two more goals behind on the night through Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes, Unai Emery’s side roared back with efforts from Youri Tielemans, John McGinn, and Ezri Konsa, thrilling the home crowd and pushing the French champions to the brink.
The atmosphere was electric as Villa, inspired by the energy of their supporters, pressed high and forced errors. PSG, dominant in the first half, were stunned by Villa’s intensity in the second. Marcus Rashford, preferred over Ollie Watkins, was exceptional, providing the assist for Konsa and leading Villa’s attacking threat until his substitution disrupted their momentum.
Marco Asensio missed a crucial one-on-one against his parent club that could have sent the tie into extra time. Villa’s late pressure wasn’t enough, as Donnarumma, the night’s standout performer, made critical saves to ensure PSG progressed.
Emery praised his team’s fight and connection with fans, saying, “They were suffering with our press. We can feel happy and proud.” McGinn and Konsa echoed that pride, despite the disappointment. PSG boss Luis Enrique admitted Villa’s dominance was unexpected, calling it a vital learning experience for his squad.
Villa now shift focus to their domestic campaign, eyeing Champions League qualification and an FA Cup semi-final. Despite elimination, they exit Europe with heads held high and belief that they belong on this stage.
Source: Swifteradio.com
