Matthew Wilkinson

Wed 5 March 2025 13:30, UK

Aston Villa secured a crucial victory in the first leg of their Round of 16 Champions League fixture away at Club Brugge.

Leon Bailey gave Villa a lead in the third minute, and despite Club Brugge managing to equalize it was the Premier League side who left with the victory.

An own goal by Branon Mechele and then a penalty from loanee Marco Asensio wrapped up the game in the final 10 minutes.

It was a historic goal for Asensio as he became the first played to reach double figures for goals as a substitute in the Champions League, as he has now scored 10 of his 13 goals in the competition from the bench.

It was a fixture filled with drama as Tyrone Mings cleared a goal-bound header off the line when the game was at 1-1, proving to be just as important as any of the late goals.

The result has placed Villa in a strong position heading into the second leg next week, where they will also have the advantage of playing at Villa Park.

Marco Asensio is dazzling at Aston Villa

Asensio joined Villa on a loan deal until the end of the season from PSG in a bid to get his career back on track after a difficult time for the French giants.

That is exactly what he has done for the Premier League side as he has now scored five goals in his last four games for Unai Emery’s side.

The midfielder has proven that he can settle into life in the Premier League, and he will now be looking to aid Villa’s attempt to secure Champions League football for next season.

Asensio was 100 per cent accurate with his passes and had two shots on goal against Club Brugge, while also making two passes into the final third in a bid to drive Villa forward.

The 29-year-old won half of his ground duels, made a clearance and a recovery as he proved he is buying into Emery’s methods of expected work ethic.

Aston Villa fans want Marco Asensio signed permanently

Villa fans have been won over by the Spain international due to his performances and the goal contributions he’s providing.

Supporters have called for the club to “sign him” on a permanent deal during the summer transfer window to bring back to the club on a full-time basis.

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