Sport News and Updates
Aston Villa is preparing for a monumental challenge as they travel to Piraeus for the decisive second leg of their Europa Conference League semi-final against Olympiacos.
After suffering a 4-2 defeat at Villa Park, the English side must overturn a two-goal deficit at the Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium. This clash will test not only their tactical prowess but also their resilience and determination.
Olympiacos, energised by their first-leg victory, is on the brink of making history. A win would bring them closer to becoming only the second Greek team to reach a major UEFA competition final.
Their journey to this stage has been marked by impressive victories over Maccabi Tel Aviv and Fenerbahce. Ayoub El Kaabi, whose hat-trick in the first leg has made him a key player for the Greek side, will be the centre of attention.
Aston Villa, meanwhile, faces a daunting task. The Premier League team must secure at least a three-goal margin victory to advance. Their recent form, especially in away games, does not bode well for this Herculean effort. However, the team’s resilience and ability to bounce back from defeats this season provide a glimmer of hope.
Olympiacos will be without Ruben Vezo, Gelson Martins, and Nelson Abbey due to ineligibility, and Stevan Jovetic remains sidelined with an injury. However, the return of Ndoj and Masouras from suspension bolsters their squad.
Aston Villa’s injury list includes Boubacar Kamara, Tyrone Mings, Emiliano Buendia, and Jacob Ramsey. The fitness of Rogers, Tielemans, Zaniolo, and Martinez will be assessed ahead of the match.