Aston Villa’s Europa League Exit as Winning Streak Ends
Aston Villa’s impressive six-match winning run came to an abrupt halt in the Netherlands as they fell to a stunning 2-1 defeat against Go Ahead Eagles in Thursday night’s Europa League encounter, reports BritPanorama.
The loss at De Adelaarshorst marked Villa’s first setback in this season’s Europa League campaign, having previously secured victories against Bologna and Feyenoord. The English side had been enjoying a remarkable turnaround in form, remaining unbeaten in normal time since their 3-0 Premier League defeat to Crystal Palace in late August.
For the Dutch hosts, the victory represents one of the most significant results in their history, having earned their European qualification through winning the KNVB Cup last season. Villa struck early as Evann Guessand netted his maiden goal for the club just four minutes in, converting after goalkeeper Jari De Busser could only punch away Jadon Sancho’s cross.
Despite dominating proceedings and creating numerous opportunities, including clear chances squandered by Ollie Watkins, Villa was unable to extend their advantage. Guessand himself was guilty of hesitation when played through on goal before the half-hour mark, allowing the dutch keeper to block his attempt. Against the run of play, Go Ahead Eagles drew level three minutes before the interval when Mathis Suray’s effort took a significant deflection and looped beyond Emiliano Martinez.
The hosts completed their remarkable comeback in the 61st minute as captain Mats Deijl controlled Joris Kramer’s delivery before finishing past Martinez. Villa was presented with an ideal opportunity to salvage a point when Dean James handled inside the penalty area with 13 minutes remaining. However, Emiliano Buendia sent his spot-kick soaring over the crossbar in the swirling wind and rain, squandering the chance to level the score.
Substitute Morgan Rogers struck the woodwork with a cross-shot and later curled an effort narrowly wide, but Villa’s attempts at a late comeback proved fruitless. The defeat leaves Unai Emery’s team with six points from their opening three Europa League fixtures, though they remain well-positioned to progress through the league phase. Villa must quickly refocus as they prepare to host Manchester City at Villa Park on Sunday, before facing Maccabi Tel-Aviv in their next European fixture.
Meanwhile in Norway, Danny Rohl’s tenure as Rangers head coach began with disappointment as his side succumbed to a 3-0 defeat against Brann in Bergen. The German, appointed just three days ago, watched his team fall behind when Emil Kornvig capitalised on a Bard Finne shot to score from close range. Despite Jack Butland producing several saves to keep Rangers in contention during the first half, the visitors struggled defensively throughout.
Jacob Sorensen doubled Brann’s advantage shortly after the interval, heading home Finne’s free-kick without any challenge from the Rangers defence. Noah Holm, who impressed throughout the second period, sealed the comprehensive victory with a powerful late strike. The result leaves Rangers rooted to the bottom of the Europa League group phase standings.
For Aston Villa, this unexpected defeat is a stark reminder of football’s unpredictability — how quickly dominance can evaporate, and how crucial it is to convert opportunities when they arise. As they look forward to the challenges ahead, the question looms: can they bounce back and regain their winning form?
