Go Ahead Eagles Shock Aston Villa!

Dream Start, Sudden Collapse

Aston Villa’s European dream hit a major bump as they suffered a shocking 2–1 defeat to Dutch underdogs Go Ahead Eagles in Deventer. What looked like an easy win turned into a nightmare for Unai Emery’s men, who paid the price for wasted chances and a missed penalty.

Villa couldn’t have asked for a better start — just four minutes in, Evann Guessand tapped home his first goal for the club after Jadon Sancho’s cross was parried into his path. The visitors dominated early on and could’ve sealed the game before half-time. Ollie Watkins and Sancho both had golden chances, but Jari De Busser, the home keeper, refused to be beaten again.

Momentum Shifts in Deventer

Just when it seemed Villa were cruising, the Eagles hit back. A looping free kick caused chaos in the box, and Mathis Suray’s deflected strike flew past Emiliano Martínez to level the score. The home crowd erupted — belief filled the small but fierce De Adelaarshorst Stadium.

Fifteen minutes into the second half, the impossible became reality. Skipper Mats Deijl controlled a cross on his chest and poked the ball beyond Martínez to complete a stunning turnaround. The Dutch side — who were playing second-division football only a few years ago — were suddenly leading against Premier League giants.

Missed Penalty, Missed Opportunity

Emery threw everything forward — McGinn, Malen, and Rogers came on in search of salvation. When Dean James handled inside the area, it looked like Villa had a lifeline. But with wind and rain swirling, Emiliano Buendía sent his penalty flying over the bar.

It was Villa’s sixth missed spot-kick in 12 months, and this one stung the most. A late shot from Rogers brushed the post, but time ran out. As fireworks lit up the Dutch night sky, the Go Ahead Eagles celebrated one of the biggest wins in their history.

Emery’s Verdict and Dutch Delight

After the match, Emery admitted his team “must be more clinical” and confirmed Buendía will stay among the club’s penalty takers. Meanwhile, Deijl, the hero of the night, called the victory “a dream come true” for the small-town club.

For Aston Villa, it was a lesson in ruthlessness. For Go Ahead Eagles, it was pure magic — a night their fans will never forget.