Nottingham Forest won the first leg of the Europa League semi-final against Aston Villa 1-0 on April 30, 2026, at the City Ground. Chris Wood scored a penalty after Lucas Digne handled the ball. Emiliano Martínez made a significant save to deny Igor Jesus in the first half.
Aston Villa’s Amadou Onana started but was forced off with a hamstring problem. Unai Emery, manager of Aston Villa, has won the Europa League four times. Nottingham Forest has previously won the European Cup twice in 1979 and 1980.
Key quotes:
- “At Villa Park will be our time. Match of our lives.” — Damian Vidagany
- “Emery predicted a ‘long game’, in other words a tight contest.” — Unknown
- “Martínez appeared close to tears as he slowly trudged off the pitch.” — Unknown
The return leg will take place at Villa Park, where Aston Villa will aim to overturn the deficit. The final of the Europa League is scheduled for May 20 in Istanbul.
