Aston Villa Denied Champions League Victory as Rogers’ Late Goal Ruled Out
Villa’s stoppage-time goal was disallowed by VAR, with the ruling that Diego Carlos fouled Juventus goalkeeper Michele di Gregorio.
The decision extended Villa’s winless streak to seven matches. Despite breaking a four-game losing run with a draw against Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Saturday, Unai Emery’s side has not celebrated a victory since a 2-0 triumph over Bologna five weeks ago.
Villa dominated the better chances against a Juventus side known for their Serie A-best defensive record. However, their inability to find the back of the net proved costly. Manager Unai Emery expressed his frustration with the disallowed goal, highlighting the differing interpretations of similar incidents between European and English referees.
“In England, that’s not a foul. In Europe, it’s different,” Emery explained. “When the action happened, I knew it would be ruled a foul here. But in the Premier League, that goal stands.”
Seeking a late breakthrough, Emery introduced impact substitute Jhon Duran in the 77th minute. Duran, who had scored in both of his previous home Champions League appearances this season, could not replicate his magic this time.
Unlucky Villa
Juventus threatened on several occasions, forcing Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez into action. Martinez, showcasing why he recently won his second Yashin Trophy, made an outstanding save to deny Francisco Conceicao’s near-post effort, which came centimeters from fully crossing the line.
Despite Juventus controlling possession, Villa carved out the more significant opportunities. Ollie Watkins tested Di Gregorio with a powerful shot, Lucas Digne’s free-kick rattled the crossbar, and John McGinn came close to scoring. Watkins was also denied by a crucial Manuel Locatelli block.
The home crowd erupted when Rogers appeared to have scored the winning goal, but their joy turned to frustration as VAR intervened. Ultimately, a draw seemed fair, although it marked Villa’s seventh consecutive game without a win under Emery.
Villa juggling demands of Premier League and Europe
Villa sit ninth in the Champions League, struggling compared to last season’s fourth-place Premier League finish, as Juventus struggles continue
Villa’s strong European start faded as balancing competitions took its toll, with six winless matches and an EFL Cup exit.
Villa Park witnessed another fine display from Martinez, who paraded his two Yashin Trophies before kickoff. However, even his heroics couldn’t inspire the win Villa desperately needed. Villa remain on track for the Champions League last 16 with their strong start but must improve significantly to progress.