Aston Villa vs Lille Preview, Prediction and Betting Tips | Europa Conference League
- Date: Thursday, 11 April
- Kick-off Time: 8:00 PM (UK)
- Venue: Villa Park
Aston Villa vs Lille Preview
In what promises to be an enthralling clash Aston Villa and Lille lock horns in the Europa Conference League quarter-finals with both teams eyeing a historic journey towards the semi-finals.
The stage is set for an intriguing battle as Villa aims to leverage their home advantage against a resolute Lille side who are making their debut at this stage of continental competition.
Aston Villa’s resurgence in European football has been remarkable marking their return after a 13-year absence with a determined run in the Conference League.
Led by their experienced manager Unai Emery, Villa has demonstrated resilience and quality throughout the campaign culminating in its first European quarter-final since 1997-98.
Their home form has been particularly impressive having won all their Conference League home games this season including qualifiers. Emery’s pedigree in European competitions notably his success with Sevilla and Villarreal adds a layer of confidence to Villa’s aspirations.
However, Villa’s recent Premier League form has been somewhat inconsistent exemplified by their thrilling 3-3 draw with Brentford.
With a crucial league encounter against Arsenal looming Emery faces the dilemma of balancing priorities between domestic and continental competitions.
Nonetheless, Villa’s ambition to secure European success and reestablish themselves as top-six contenders in the Premier League will drive their determination against Lille.
On the other hand, Lille arrives at Villa Park with a blend of ambition and confidence under the guidance of manager Paulo Fonseca.
Despite their relative inexperience at this stage of European competition Lille’s progressive style of play and solid defensive organization pose a formidable challenge to their English counterparts.
The French side’s impressive statistics in ball possession and passing highlight their effectiveness in dictating play both domestically and in Europe.
Lille’s recent victory against Marseille underscores their competitive edge and resilience positioning them as formidable opponents for Villa.
While historical records may not favour Lille in English soil their current form and tactical prowess suggest they are capable of rewriting history and securing a crucial first-leg advantage.
With both teams striving to etch their names into the annals of Europa Conference League history the first-leg encounter between Aston Villa and Lille promises an absorbing contest of tactical acumen determination and skill.
Aston Villa vs Lille Team News
Aston Villa
Aston Villa welcomes back John McGinn after a three-match domestic ban, adding depth to their midfield. Goalkeeper Emi Martinez has also recovered from injury, ensuring stability at the back. Nicolo Zaniolo returns after missing the previous fixture due to suspension, boosting Villa’s attacking options.
However, Villa continues to miss the services of long-term absentees Tyrone Mings, Boubacar Kamara, and Emi Buendia, while Matty Cash and Jacob Ramsey remain sidelined.
In light of upcoming Premier League fixtures, Unai Emery is expected to rotate the squad, but Douglas Luiz is set to start both legs against Lille despite his suspension in domestic competitions. Luiz’s contribution in midfield, with four assists in the Conference League this season, will be crucial.
Despite concerns over a hamstring issue, top scorer Ollie Watkins is likely to feature in the attacking lineup, with Jhon Duran available as cover.
Lille
Lille, on the other hand, will rely on Jonathan David to lead their attack, supported by in-form winger Edon Zhegrova, who showcased his prowess with a brace in the recent Derby du Nord against Lens.
Angel Gomes has recovered earlier than expected from a hamstring injury, providing additional midfield options for Paulo Fonseca’s side. However, Fonseca may choose between Remy Cabella, Adam Ounas, and Hakon Arnar Haraldsson to fill an advanced role behind David.
Injuries continue to sideline Andrej Ilic, Tiago Morais, and experienced defender Samuel Umtiti, depriving Lille of their services for this crucial fixture.
Aston Villa vs Lille Predicted Lineups:
Aston Villa’s possible starting lineup:
Martinez; Konsa, Carlos, Torres, Moreno; Bailey, Luiz, McGinn, Rogers; Diaby, Watkins.
Lille’s possible starting lineup:
Chevalier; Santos, Diakite, Yoro, Ismaily; Andre, Bentaleb; Zhegrova, Cabella, Haraldsson; David.
Aston Villa vs Lille Head-to-Head Record
In their previous encounters, Aston Villa and Lille have met twice.
- Games won by Aston Villa: 0
- Games won by Lille: 1
- Games drawn: 1
Despite their limited head-to-head history, Lille holds a slight advantage with one victory, while one match ended in a draw. As they meet again in the Europa Conference League quarter-finals, both teams will be eager to tip the scales in their favor and secure a crucial first-leg advantage.
| Date | Match | Result | Score | Competition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31 Jul 2002 | Lille OSC vs Aston Villa | D | 1-1 | UEFA Intertoto Cup |
| 07 Aug 2002 | Aston Villa vs Lille | L | 0-2 | UEFA Intertoto Cup |
Aston Villa vs Lille Prediction
Considering their recent form and attacking prowess, we anticipate a closely-fought battle with goals on both ends. The last time these clubs met was in the Intertoto Cup back in 2002, but this time, there’s much more at stake, adding an extra layer of intensity to the clash.
While a circumspect approach might be expected in the first leg, both teams boast a penchant for finding the back of the net. Villa Park has been witness to plenty of goals this season, hinting at a potentially open and entertaining affair.
Therefore, our prediction for this encounter is a thrilling 2-2 draw, with both teams showcasing their attacking prowess and setting the stage for an intriguing second leg.
Prediction: Aston Villa 2-2 Lille
Aston Villa vs Lille Betting Tips and Odds:
Bookmakers expect Villa to win the Aston Villa vs Lille affair and expect Unai Emery’s side to score at least two goals.
- Aston Villa win: 1.66
- Draw: 4.15
- Lille win: 5.60
Odds Source: Oddspedia.com
Where to Watch Aston Villa vs Lille:
- India: Sony Liv, Sony Sports Network
- UK: TNT Sports
- USA: CBS Sports
- Nigeria: Supersports
Also Read: Benfica vs Marseille Preview, Prediction and Betting Tips