Nicolo Zaniolo's Opener Puts Villa in Front

Aston Villa confirmed their victory in the Europa Conference League group after surviving late scares in their match against Zrinjski Mostar. Italian winger Nicolo Zaniolo slotted home a neat opener in the 61st minute to give Villa the lead.

Quiet First Half and Injury Substitution

The first half was relatively quiet, with Villa's Jhon Duran coming close with a flick-shot. Zrinjski Mostar was forced to make a substitution when Dario Canadjija got injured and was replaced by Tomislav Kis. Zaniolo was booked shortly after for fouling Kis.

Zaniolo's Beautiful Goal and Villa's Nervous Moments

Just three minutes after coming on as a substitute, John McGinn set up Zaniolo for the breakthrough. McGinn's quick left-wing cross found Zaniolo, who slid in and coolly slotted the ball home. However, Villa had some nervous moments after the goal, with young goalkeeper Filip Marschal making crucial saves to keep the lead. In the 87th minute, Matija Malekinusi equalized for Zrinjski Mostar.

Aston Villa's Smooth European Campaign Continues

Despite the late equalizer, Aston Villa's smooth European campaign under Unai Emery continues. The team secured their victory in the Europa Conference League group and will move forward in the competition.

Zrinjski's Kerim Memija fends off Villa's Nicolo Zaniolo, while Villa's Leander Dendoncker outjumps Zrinjski's Nemanja Bilbija.