Go Ahead Eagles ended Aston Villa’s perfect European run with a stunning 2-1 comeback win in the Netherlands.
Go Ahead Eagles pulled off one of the most memorable victories in their history with a 2-1 triumph over Aston Villa in Thursday’s Europa League clash at De Adelaarshorst.
Unai Emery’s men took an early lead through Evann Guessand’s header in the fourth minute, appearing set to extend their unbeaten European streak. However, the Dutch side fought back resiliently. Mathis Suray equalised just before half-time with a deflected strike past Emiliano Martínez, giving the hosts belief.
Villa, who had entered the game on a run of five straight wins, began to lose control after the break as Go Ahead Eagles grew in confidence. Mats Deijl completed the comeback shortly before the hour mark, lifting the ball past Martínez to send the home crowd into delirium.
Emiliano Buendía’s missed penalty late on summed up Villa’s frustrating night, as the Premier League side suffered their first European defeat of the campaign.
Having earned qualification through their first major trophy in 92 years, this victory marked a new high point for Go Ahead Eagles. For Aston Villa, it was a reminder that no fixture in Europe comes easily.