Aston Villa continued their impressive European run with a 2-1 victory over Basel in the Europa League on Thursday, securing their eighth consecutive win in all competitions. Nottingham Forest also celebrated a vital away victory, while Celtic endured a difficult night at home with a heavy defeat to Roma.
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Villa took the lead in Switzerland through Evann Guessand, but Basel hit back when Flavius Daniliuc nodded in Xherdan Shaqiri’s well-placed free-kick after goalkeeper Marco Bizot hesitated. Early in the second half, Youri Tielemans produced a composed finish from outside the box to restore Villa’s advantage—ultimately sealing their fifth win in six Europa League league-phase matches this season.
Manager Unai Emery praised his side’s resilience following their recent intense fixtures, including a hard-fought win over Arsenal. “The last 10 minutes were difficult, but I’m happy with the victory. It is not easy to beat them here,” he said.
With 15 points, Villa stand third in the Europa League standings, behind Lyon and Midtjylland only on goal difference, ensuring at least a play-off place. Tielemans said the team remains focused on topping the group in their final fixtures.
Forest End 30-Year Wait for European Away Win
Nottingham Forest boosted their chances of qualifying directly for the last 16 with a 2-1 win against Utrecht, securing their first European away victory since 1995.
Arnaud Kalimuendo scored just after the break before Utrecht equalised through Mike van der Hoorn. However, with two minutes left, Igor Jesus found the net through a crowded box to give Forest a dramatic winner.
Manager Sean Dyche said he was delighted with the performance and result.
Celtic Fall 3-0 to Clinical Roma
New Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy suffered a second straight defeat as the Scottish champions were beaten 3-0 by Roma at home.
An early Liam Scales own goal put Celtic behind before on-loan striker Evan Ferguson scored twice to seal Roma’s dominance.
Nancy said his players struggled with Roma’s intensity but was encouraged by their second-half response.
Rangers Close to Elimination
Rangers’ European hopes dimmed further after a 2-1 loss to Ferencvaros, marking their fifth defeat in six games.
Although Bojan Miovski opened the scoring, Robbie Keane’s Hungarian side equalised before Barnabas Varga scored the winner.
Elsewhere, Lyon beat Go Ahead Eagles 2-1, maintaining their position above Midtjylland, who secured a 1-0 victory over Genk.
