In their pursuit of points in the Europa Conference League campaign, Aston Villa welcomes debutants Zrinjski Mostar to Villa Park on Thursday.
After a defeat in their Group E opener, Villa looks to bounce back against a resilient Zrinjski side that secured a sensational opening-day victory over AZ Alkmaar.
Match Preview:
Following their impressive 8-0 aggregate victory over Hibernian in the playoff round, Aston Villa had high hopes of emulating West Ham’s success in the Europa Conference League.
However, they were stunned early in their Group E fixture against Legia Warsaw, ultimately losing to a late goal from Ernest Muci.
With a tough double-header against AZ approaching, Aston Villa must avoid another slip-up this week.
Under the guidance of coach Unai Emery, who specializes in UEFA competitions, Aston Villa has established a formidable home record at Villa Park.
The team’s flawless performance in the league this season, coupled with their recent 6-1 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, showcases their attacking prowess, led by Ollie Watkins.
Zrinjski Mostar, the first Bosnian side to reach a UEFA competition group stage, displayed incredible resilience in their opening match against AZ, overturning a 3-0 deficit to secure a thrilling 4-3 victory.
Since then, they have continued their winning form in domestic competitions, currently sitting fourth in the table.
Aston Villa Europa Conference League form: W-W-L
Aston Villa form (all competitions): L-W-L-W-L-W
Zrinjski Mostar Europa Conference League form: W
Zrinjski Mostar form (all competitions): D-W-L-L-D-W
Team News:
Aston Villa winger Leon Bailey remains sidelined due to a thigh strain, while Alex Moreno is expected to return after the international break.
Long-term absentees Tyrone Mings and Emi Buendia face lengthy recoveries.
Unai Emery has options for squad rotation, with players like Clement Lenglet, Youri Tielemans, and Jacob Ramsey vying for starting positions.
Zrinjski’s forward Tomislav Kis, who scored twice in their last match, is likely to feature as the central striker. Club captain Nemanja Bilbija provides another strong option.
Zvonimir Kozulj, the hero of their comeback against AZ, is expected to be involved, as coach Krunoslav Rendulic sticks with his attacking 4-3-3 formation.
Possible Starting Lineups:
Aston Villa:
Olsen;
Cash, Konsa, Lenglet, Digne;
Kamara, Tielemans;
Ramsey, McGinn, Zaniolo;
Duran
Zrinjski Mostar:
Maric;
Corluka, Jakovljevic, Radic, Memija;
Ivancic, Balic, Kozulj;
Cuze, Kis, Ticinovic
Prediction:
With Zrinjski Mostar’s impressive recent performances and Aston Villa likely to rotate their squad, the visitors could pose a threat to the home team.
However, Aston Villa’s strong home record and attacking prowess should lead them to victory, with a predicted scoreline of 3-1.