Aston Villa Stuns PSG but Exits Champions League on Aggregate
Despite the victory, Villa were eliminated from the competition, falling 5-4 on aggregate as PSG advanced to the semi-finals to face the winners of Arsenal vs. Real Madrid.
Aston Villa beat PSG 3-2 in a thrilling Champions League quarter-final, but were knocked out 5-4 on aggregate as PSG advanced to face Arsenal or Real Madrid. Photo/Goal.com.
By Robert Assad
Aston Villa delivered a valiant performance, defeating Paris Saint-Germain 3-2 in a thrilling Champions League quarter-final second leg at Parc des Princes.
Despite the victory, Villa were eliminated from the competition, falling 5-4 on aggregate as PSG advanced to the semi-finals to face the winners of Arsenal vs. Real Madrid.
Villa, trailing 3-1 from the first leg, showed remarkable determination in their bid to overturn the deficit. The visitors struck early, capitalizing on PSG’s defensive lapses to take a 2-0 lead within the first half.
Ollie Watkins was instrumental, scoring a clinical goal, while Morgan Rogers added another with a deft finish. PSG responded after the break, pulling one back through a Kylian Mbappé strike, but Villa restored their two-goal lead on the night with a stunning long-range effort from Youri Tielemans.
As the clock ticked down, PSG’s quality shone through. A late goal from Gonçalo Ramos ensured the French giants held onto their aggregate advantage, securing a 5-4 victory over the tie.
Villa’s players and fans were left heartbroken, having come agonizingly close to a historic upset against one of Europe’s elite clubs.
Manager Unai Emery praised his team’s resilience, noting the match as a testament to Villa’s growing stature. “We showed we can compete with the best,” Emery said. “This performance will fuel our ambition for the future.”
The defeat marked the end of Villa’s remarkable Champions League campaign, their first in the competition since 1983, but their spirited display against PSG signaled their potential on the European stage.
For PSG, the semi-final berth keeps their dream of a first Champions League title alive. They now await the outcome of the Arsenal-Real Madrid clash, with a chance to reach the final. The match showcased both teams’ attacking flair, but PSG’s experience and depth proved decisive.
Aston Villa return to domestic action with heads held high, having earned respect across Europe. For PSG, the focus shifts to the semi-finals, where they aim to overcome another heavyweight opponent in their quest for European glory.
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