The Aston Villa provocateur who was key in driving them into Europa League last eight

FootballSports
20 Mar 2026 • 6:45 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Aston Villa defeated Lille 2-0 in the Europa League, securing a 3-0 aggregate victory and advancing to the quarter-finals.
  • John McGinn scored the opening goal in the second half, following a crucial save and assist from goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
  • Leon Bailey added a second goal late in the match, confirming Villa's comfortable progression in the competition.
  • Emiliano Martinez's actions, including provocative gestures towards Lille fans, reignited tensions from previous encounters, including the 2022 World Cup.
  • The win marks Aston Villa's third consecutive European quarter-final under manager Unai Emery, who is now aiming for a potential fifth European title.

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