Bayern Munich's unbeaten run in Champions League group games came to an end on Wednesday with a 1-0 loss to Aston Villa, signaling a potential new chapter of European success for the English club. Villa celebrated their greatest night in history, a 1982 European Cup victory over Bayern, in their first home match at the continent's highest level in 41 years. Since Unai Emery took charge, Villa's fortunes have dramatically changed, moving from a relegation battle to a top-four finish last season. Now, in their inaugural Champions League campaign, they are one of only seven teams with perfect points.
Bayern's last group stage defeat, 41 games ago, was also under Emery's management at Paris Saint-Germain. Despite mixed results in France and at Arsenal, Emery has a history of elevating mid-tier European clubs to compete with the elite. He won three consecutive Europa Leagues with Sevilla and secured Villarreal's first major trophy in 2021. The following season, Villarreal reached the Champions League semi-finals, eliminating Juventus and Bayern.
Villa is now benefiting from Emery's tactical acumen and ability to refine raw talent. Last season, they outperformed teams like Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham, finishing fourth in the Premier League. Emery's strategy saw Villa Park victories over title contenders Manchester City and Arsenal, and they repeated this feat against a high-scoring Bayern.
Bayern struggled against Villa's organized defense, conceding a goal to substitute Jhon Duran, who lobbed Manuel Neuer with 11 minutes left. Emi Martinez made crucial saves in the closing moments, keeping Bayern, who had averaged over four goals per game under Vincent Kompany, scoreless. Martinez emphasized the importance of qualifying for the top eight, noting the electric atmosphere at Villa Park.
Emery's tactics even impressed Villa fan Prince William, who attended the match. Forward Morgan Rogers, who was playing in the Championship earlier this year, is another example of Emery's ability to develop players. Rogers described his rapid rise as a 'pinch me moment,' highlighting the team's ambition to win games.
In 1982, Bayern legends Paul Breitner and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge were stunned by Villa in Rotterdam. Four decades later, the German giants were once again left to reflect on a memorable night in the Midlands.
