Aston Villa Enter Europa Conference League Semi-Finals with Narrow Victory

Villa Edge Lille 2-1 in Thrilling Quarterfinal First Leg

McGinn and Diakité Exchange Goals as Tie Remains on Knife's Edge

Aston Villa secured a precious 2-1 advantage over Lille in the first leg of their Europa Conference League quarterfinal matchup. John McGinn gave the visitors the lead, but Bafodé Diakité equalized for the French side.

The match was fiercely contested, with both teams creating numerous chances. Emi Martinez, Villa's goalkeeper, was at the heart of the action, making several crucial saves.

Lille will host the second leg on April 25, 2024, and will need to overturn the deficit to qualify for the semifinals.