UEL: Villa Edges Closer to Europa Success with 2-0 Win Over Feyenoord

Villa's perfect run continues with 2-0 victory against Feyenoord

Aston Villa revisited the scene of their 1982 European Cup triumph, defeating Feyenoord 2-0 with a pair of second-half goals that extended their perfect start to the UEFA Europa League campaign under Robin van Persie's opponent, Unai Emery's management.

Feyenoord remained a threat after the break, creating numerous opportunities, but it was Evann Guessand who had the closest...

Aston Villa made a statement in the UEFA Europa League, defeating Feyenoord 2-0 at De Kuip, a stadium where they last triumphed in the 1982 European Cup final. This impressive win extends Villa's perfect start to the campaign under Unai Emery.

The match was far from one-sided, with Feyenoord dominating the early stages and creating several scoring opportunities. However, Aston Villa's defense, marshaled superbly by goalkeeper Marco Bizot, held firm against the Dutch side's attacks. The breakthrough came in the 61st minute when Boubacar Kamara set up Emiliano Buendia, who coolly slotted the ball into the far corner. John McGinn doubled the lead for Villa in the 79th minute, tapping in after Donyell Malen's shot was blocked.

Feyenoord's Sem Steijn posed a significant threat, while Anis Hadj Moussa tested Villa goalkeeper Marco Bizot with a shot towards the near post. Despite the pressure, Villa held firm and nearly earned a numerical advantage when Anel Ahmedhodzic fouled Ollie Watkins on a breakaway. However, referee Rade Obrenovic opted to stick with his initial yellow card decision after a VAR review.

The drama continued as Watkins beat Timon Wellenreuther but had his shot cleared off the line by a retreating Feyenoord defender, denying Villa a potential opening goal.

Feyenoord took the game to Aston Villa, enjoying a period of dominance that forced Villa goalkeeper Marco Bizot into crucial saves against Sem Steijn and Ayase Ueda. The controversy continued when Ueda's header was disallowed for a perceived foul in the build-up. Despite their dominance, Feyenoord couldn't capitalize, with Luciano Valente's powerful shot being tipped over by Bizot, keeping the scoreline goalless at halftime.

Two from two in the Europa League 🟣 pic.twitter.com/XyhEAf3Eo9

— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) October 2, 2025

Feyenoord remained a threat after the break, creating numerous opportunities, but it was Evann Guessand who had the closest attempt to scoring, hitting the outside of the post after a cross from Ian Maatsen. Despite their best efforts, Feyenoord couldn't find the breakthrough, and Villa's defense held firm.

Aston Villa seized the momentum and launched a strong counter-attack, which paid off just after the hour mark. Boubacar Kamara's clever lay-off found Emiliano Buendia on the edge of the area, and the Argentine attacker delivered a clinical finish with his right foot, sending the ball into the far corner.

The Villans settled into a comfortable rhythm, looking to hold onto their lead. However, substitute Donyell Malen had other plans. He skillfully turned his marker and charged into the box, where he was brought down. John McGinn pounced on the loose ball and calmly slotted home Villa's second goal, doubling their advantage.

Aston Villa comfortably held on to their lead, securing a 2-0 victory over Feyenoord in their first-ever meeting. The win marked a strong start to Villa's UEFA Europa League campaign under Unai Emery.

Robin van Persie, Feyenoord's manager, faces a tough challenge to turn things around after his team suffered consecutive defeats in the competition. Unlike Emery, Van Persie lacks extensive European managerial experience, making his task even more daunting as he seeks to right the ship for Feyenoord.

Key Highlights of the Match

Aston Villa's Dominance: After going down a gear following the first goal, Villa took control and dictated the pace of the game.

Feyenoord's Struggles: Despite creating chances, Feyenoord couldn't find the back of the net, with Bizot making crucial saves to deny Anis Hadj Moussa and Ayase Ueda.

Unai Emery's Tactics: The Spanish manager's substitutions paid off, as Villa's fresh legs made all the difference in the second half.

Player of the Match: Marco Bizot was instrumental in Villa's win, making several key saves and earning praise from Emery.

This win puts Aston Villa in a strong position in Group F, with two wins from two matches. Feyenoord, on the other hand, will be disappointed after failing to capitalize on their chances.