Aston Villa secured a 3-1 victory over Club Brugge in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie, setting a strong foundation for advancement to the quarter-finals.
Leon Bailey opened the scoring for Villa just three minutes into the match, connecting with a knock-down from Tyrone Mings to volley home. The hosts responded promptly, with Maxim De Cuyper leveling the score nine minutes later.
In the 83rd minute, Brugge's Brandon Mechele inadvertently directed Morgan Rogers' cross into his own net, giving Villa a 2-1 lead. Five minutes later, Marco Asensio converted a penalty after Christos Tzolis fouled Matty Cash in the box, sealing the 3-1 result.
Defender Tyrone Mings made a crucial goal-line clearance, preventing Hans Vanaken's header from giving Brugge the lead. This intervention was hailed as a "game-changer" and pivotal in shifting the match's momentum in Villa's favor.
The second leg is scheduled at Villa Park, where Aston Villa will aim to capitalize on their advantage and secure a spot in the Champions League quarter-finals.