EFL: Aston Villa Ease Past Preston 3-0 to Reach FA Cup Semi-Finals

Aston Villa cruised into the FA Cup semi-finals with a convincing 3-0 victory over Preston North End.

Aston Villa secured a spot in the FA Cup semi-finals with a convincing 3-0 win over Preston North End at Deepdale, bringing an end to the hosts' impressive 15-match unbeaten home run in all competitions. This victory marked a significant milestone for Villa, who were competing in their first FA Cup quarter-final since the 2014-2015 campaign, when they ultimately fell to Arsenal in the final.

A MASSIVE THREE POINTS 😍 pic.twitter.com/zjHmtvDuAQ

— Aston Villa Women (@AVWFCOfficial) March 30, 2025

Villa had the first scoring opportunity when Ezri Konsa narrowly missed connecting with Marco Asensio's inviting left-footed cross. Unai Emery's side then attempted to capitalize on two set-piece opportunities, but Lucas Digne's deliveries sailed harmlessly over and wide, respectively. As the game progressed, Preston sought to grasp their chance and make a meaningful impact on the match.

The magnitude of this FA Cup quarter-final clash was substantial for both teams, but particularly for Preston, who were competing in their first quarter-final appearance in 59 years. The occasion was not lost on the hosts, who were eager to make the most of this rare opportunity and create a memorable upset against their esteemed opponents.

Preston North End crafted a promising scoring opportunity when Emiliano Martínez parried Robbie Brady's initial cross into the path of Mads Frøkjær-Jensen. Jensen nodded the ball back to Stefan Teitur Poroarson, who unfortunately headed over from close range, squandering a gilt-edged chance for the hosts.

Aston Villa's first-half performance was underwhelming, with Ezri Konsa's awkward headed attempt from Marcus Rashford's corner epitomizing their struggles. Konsa's effort sailed over the bar, encapsulating Villa's lack of cutting edge in the opening 45 minutes.

The second half witnessed a more purposeful Villa, with Rashford playing a pivotal role in a swift counter-attack. Morgan Rogers' perseverance created an opportunity for Rashford, who was slipped in behind the Preston defense. However, Rashford's effort was thwarted by the imposing David Cornell, who denied the Manchester United loanee with a solid save.

Rashford eventually made the breakthrough for Unai Emery's side in the 58th minute, showcasing his clinical finishing prowess. He met Lucas Digne's cross with a precise first-time right-footed effort, handing Villa a crucial advantage in the match.

The momentum shifted decisively in Villa's favor as Marcus Rashford scored his second goal of the match just five minutes after his first. Andrew Hughes was penalized for treading on Morgan Rogers' foot inside the box, and Rashford confidently converted the ensuing penalty, sending David Cornell the wrong way.

Rashford nearly added an assist to his brace, catching the Preston defense off guard with a through ball that released Rogers. However, Cornell was once again equal to the task, denying Rogers with a solid save. Undeterred, Villa continued to press and eventually added a third goal through Jacob Ramsey's exceptional individual effort. Ramsey rifled home a fine finish into the bottom corner, putting the game out of Preston's reach.

Emi Martinez marked his 200th @AVFCOfficial appearance with a clean sheet 🧤#EmiratesFACup pic.twitter.com/AjaL1AC0VW

— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) March 30, 2025

Although the 3-0 scoreline seemed harsh on Paul Heckingbottom's side, Preston's first-half display was a source of encouragement. Unfortunately, this defeat continued the club's dismal record against top-flight opposition in the FA Cup, with 19 losses in their previous 20 encounters against teams from England's highest division.

In contrast, Aston Villa's convincing victory has instilled belief that they can end their 19-year major trophy drought. This win marked their fifth consecutive victory in all competitions without conceding a goal, a testament to their growing momentum and confidence under Unai Emery.