Aston Villa’s first-ever Round of 16 match in the UEFA Champions League was a success as they secured a 3-1 victory away at Club Brugge in the first leg. Leon Bailey opened the scoring in the third minute. But the hosts responded swiftly, with Maxim De Cuyper equalizing nine minutes later. However, a late own goal from Brandon Mechele and a penalty from Marco Asensio put Unai Emery’s men in a strong position to reach the quarterfinals.
This was the second meeting between the two sides in this season’s Champions League, with Club Brugge winning their previous encounter in the league phase. January loan signings Marcus Rashford and Axel Disasi started for the Clarets, while FA Cup fifth-round hero Marco Asensio had to settle for a place on the bench.
Early Lead and Club Brugge's Response
Unai Emery’s side wasted no time in making an impact. A free-kick from Youri Tielemans was headed on by Tyrone Mings, and the ball fell to Leon Bailey, who made no mistake in finding the bottom corner.
Villa nearly doubled their lead soon after, with Marcus Rashford forcing a good save from Club Brugge goalkeeper Simon Mignolet. However, the home side quickly responded. Christos Tzolis collected a long pass and set up Maxim De Cuyper, who finished clinically to level the score.
Despite Aston Villa controlling possession, they struggled to break down the Brugge defense. As the half-hour mark passed, the hosts grew into the game, attempting a few shots in quick succession. However, neither side could capitalize, and the match remained 1-1 at halftime.
Second-Half Struggles and Emery’s Frustration
The second half mirrored the end of the first, with both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances. By the hour mark, Unai Emery had seen enough and made four substitutions in an attempt to change the game. However, the changes had little immediate impact. Showing displeasure at the touchline, Emery received a booking from referee João Pedro Silva Pinheiro.
With just over 20 minutes remaining, Aston Villa finally showed more attacking intent primarily through substitute Jacob Ramsey. But it was Club Brugge who began to push harder in search of a lead. Then, against the run of play, Villa struck again. Morgan Rogers delivered a low cross into the box, which Club Brugge center-back Brandon Mechele inadvertently turned into his own net, leaving Mignolet helpless.
Asensio Seals the Win
Club Brugge manager Nicky Hayen responded with a couple of changes in an effort to turn the game around. However, things got worse for the Belgian side. Christos Tzolis, attempting to recover a loose ball, clipped Aston Villa full-back Matty Cash inside the penalty area, conceding a spot-kick. Despite slipping during his run-up, Marco Asensio converted the penalty, securing Villa’s crucial third goal.
Even with two late substitutions, Club Brugge failed to find a way back into the match. Aston Villa now hold a commanding position to advance to the quarterfinals, where they could face either Liverpool or Paris Saint-Germain. The second leg is set to take place next Wednesday.