Aston Villa Progress to Europa League Last 16 as Forest and Rangers Falter
Aston Villa have booked their spot in the Europa League last 16 after a narrow 1-0 win against Fenerbahce on Thursday. Nottingham Forest suffered a tough defeat at Braga, Celtic drew 2-2 with Bologna, and Rangers exited the tournament despite a victory.
Sancho Header Secures Aston Villa Win
Jadon Sancho’s first-half header in Istanbul proved decisive, marking Aston Villa’s sixth victory in seven European games. The win ensures Unai Emery’s team avoids the knockout play-offs and moves straight into the last 16.
Aston Villa defended resolutely as Matty Cash struck the post, and goalkeeper Marco Bizot made vital saves to deny Fenerbahce any chance of an equalizer.
Sancho, on loan from Manchester United, told TNT Sports:
“Scoring my first goal for Villa and helping the team win feels amazing. I will keep giving my best and hope to contribute more goals. Having a manager who trusts me is very motivating.”
With 18 points, Villa sit second in the group, behind Lyon on goal difference. Lyon confirmed their qualification with a 1-0 win over Young Boys, thanks to Ainsley Maitland-Niles.
Nottingham Forest Struggle at Braga
Nottingham Forest fell to a 1-0 defeat at Braga, who moved up to fifth in the group. Early in the second half, Morgan Gibbs-White had a penalty saved, and Braga quickly scored as Forest captain Ryan Yates accidentally put the ball into his own net.
Forest’s situation worsened when Elliot Anderson was sent off for dissent in stoppage time. Manager Sean Dyche said:
“It’s frustrating. We never seemed under pressure, but a single moment cost us the game. Braga barely had a real chance, yet we ended up losing.”
Celtic Draw Against Bologna
Celtic could only manage a 2-2 draw in Bologna, leaving them in the last play-off spot, 24th out of 36 teams. Reo Hatate scored early but was sent off for a second booking in the 34th minute. Auston Trusty added a second before half-time, but Bologna fought back with goals from Thijs Dallings and Jonathan Rowe.
Manager Martin O’Neill said:
“We’ve kept our qualification hopes alive. If we had stayed at full strength, I believe we could have won.”
Rangers Exit Despite Win
Rangers were eliminated despite defeating Ludogorets 1-0 at Ibrox, with Mohamed Diomande scoring the decisive goal.
Teams Approaching Last 16
Freiburg and Midtjylland remain close to qualifying, while Roma strengthened their position with a 2-0 victory over Stuttgart, marking their fourth consecutive Europa League win.
