Watkins puts Villa ahead at Villa Park
Aston Villa moved closer to their first major European final in 44 years after beating Nottingham Forest 3-1 in the first leg of the Europa League semi-final.
Unai Emery’s side started strongly at Villa Park and opened the scoring in the 22nd minute. Ollie Watkins reacted to a defensive mistake and finished the chance to make it 1-0.
Forest stayed in the match and replied before half-time. Morgan Gibbs-White scored the equaliser, giving the visitors hope before the break.
Bailey and McGinn give Villa control
Villa took charge again in the second half. Leon Bailey restored the lead in the 64th minute with a curling finish.
Forest tried to stay close in the tie, but Villa added a third goal in stoppage time. Captain John McGinn scored to give Emery’s team a two-goal lead before the return match.
After the final whistle, Emery said the work was only half done, despite Villa’s strong position.
Forest need a response at the City Ground
Nottingham Forest leave Birmingham with a difficult task, but Gibbs-White’s goal keeps them alive before the second leg.
The return fixture will be played at the City Ground on May 7. If Villa protect their 3-1 lead, they will reach the final against Roma or Bayer Leverkusen.
