Match Preview: Aston Villa Eyeing Historic Comeback Against Olympiacos | OneFootball

Olympiacos vs Aston Villa: Europa Conference League Showdown

As the Europa Conference League semi-finals approach their climactic second leg, all eyes are set on the intense matchup between Olympiacos and Aston Villa. With the English team trailing after a thrilling first leg at Villa Park, the stakes couldn’t be higher as they travel to Greece.

Villa’s Uphill Battle

Aston Villa’s recent European journey has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. After a disappointing 4-2 defeat in the first leg—where Ayoub El Kaabi’s hat-trick proved pivotal—the 1982 European champions now face a significant challenge. Ollie Watkins and Moussa Diaby managed to score for Villa, but a crucial penalty miss by Douglas Luiz has added to the pressure for the return leg. Unai Emery’s side, simultaneously juggling domestic aspirations, stumbled again last Sunday, losing 1-0 to Brighton. However, with Tottenham also dropping points, Villa’s top-four hopes in the Premier League are still alive, needing just three points from two games to secure Champions League qualification.

Photo: IMAGO

Olympiacos: Rested and Ready

On the other side, Olympiacos have been focusing on their own league ambitions, contending for the Greek Super League title. Having enjoyed a week’s rest before this crucial fixture, they are in an advantageous position to host a weary Villa squad. The Greek team’s form has been formidable, exemplified by their recent victory over Lamia and a resilient draw against Aris Thessaloniki. With key players like Andreas Ndoj and Georgios Masouras returning from suspensions, though potentially not starting, their lineup looks robust.

Key Absences and Potential Impact

The injury woes for Aston Villa are mounting at a critical time. With key figures like Boubacar Kamara and Tyrone Mings sidelined, and Emiliano Martinez only just returning from injury, the team’s depth is severely tested. Conversely, Olympiacos will be without Stevan Jovetic and a few other squad members due to injuries and ineligibility, which might offer some solace to the English visitors.

Match Prediction and Lineups

Despite the visible fatigue and injuries plaguing Aston Villa, their performance both domestically and in Europe has been commendable. However, facing a two-goal deficit and a well-rested Olympiacos side, the challenge on Thursday will be monumental. The predicted lineups suggest a strategic setup from both teams, with Villa likely adopting a 4-4-2 formation to maximize their offensive presence.

“Olympiacos predicted lineup vs Aston Villa (4-3-2-1): Tzolakis; Rodinei, Retsos, Carmo, Richards; Hezze, Iborra, Chiquinho; Fortounis, Podence; El Kaabi.”

“Aston Villa predicted lineup vs Aston Villa (4-4-2): Martinez; Cash, Carlos, Konsa, Moreno; Bailey, Luiz, McGinn, Zaniolo; Diaby, Watkins.”

In conclusion, while Aston Villa’s resilience has been a highlight this season, the physical demands and strategic challenges posed by a solid Olympiacos could well result in a 2-2 draw in Piraeus, concluding the tie 6-4 on aggregate in favour of the Greek outfit.