Aston Villa missed the chance to secure early progression to the Champions League knockouts, falling 1-0 to Monaco at Stade Louis II.
The game’s decisive moment came in the eighth minute when Wilfried Singo headed home after Emiliano Martinez parried Thilo Kehrer’s initial effort. Despite Monaco’s recent struggles, the hosts displayed composure and energy, keeping Villa at bay.
Villa had opportunities to equalize, with Radoslaw Majecki denying both Leon Bailey and Ollie Watkins before halftime. However, the visitors’ lack of precision and fluidity in attack left them frustrated.
Monaco had a second goal disallowed for offside early in the second half but remained the more threatening side, exploiting Villa’s defensive lapses with counterattacks that required last-ditch blocks to prevent further damage.
Villa manager Unai Emery’s visible frustration grew as his team’s sloppy passing hindered any comeback hopes. Even the introduction of Jhon Duran failed to spark a revival for the visitors.
The result leaves Aston Villa needing a win against Celtic at Villa Park next Wednesday to guarantee a top-eight finish and automatic qualification for the knockout stage.
Monaco’s win, meanwhile, boosted their own hopes, moving them level on 13 points with Villa.
Missed Opportunity for Aston Villa
Despite being favorites against a struggling Monaco side, Villa failed to deliver a performance worthy of their recent form in Europe. Their away struggles continued, with this defeat marking their seventh in ten road games.
Villa remains in a strong position to advance in their debut Champions League season, but this result serves as a reminder of the challenges that come with top-level European football.
