Aston Villa have qualified for the Europa League last 16 after they battled to a 1-0 win away to Fenerbahce in difficult circumstances.
Villa secured a top-eight finish thanks to Jadon Sancho’s 25th-minute header, the winger’s first goal for the club since arriving on loan earlier in the season. Emery’s team then had to withstand heavy pressure, particularly in the second half, to protect a narrow lead.
Speaking after the match, Emery praised his players’ discipline and mentality.
“The most important thing today was to compete like we did and to feel good playing in our style,” he told media. “They demanded that we were compact and we did it. We won the match and that is very important for us.”
Villa had chances to extend their lead, but Marco Bizot produced a series of saves to keep the hosts at bay. Morgan Rogers also had a goal ruled out, while VAR went Villa’s way late on when Kerem Akturkoglu’s equaliser was disallowed.
Emery was pleased with how his side responded after recent setbacks, including injuries to key players and a league defeat at Everton.
“To recover after Sunday with the feeling we had was important,” he said. “Now we focus on the next match against Newcastle.”
The Villa boss also confirmed the importance of squad depth with the transfer window nearing its close.
“We are building the team but some circumstances are not helping us,” Emery added. “Hopefully we can complete the squad for the next months and competitions.”
Tyrone Mings made his first appearance since November and helped Villa keep a clean sheet. Emery was quick to praise the defender’s return.
“He is intelligent and today we needed him,” he said. “After two months not playing, he showed his commitment.”
Villa now move directly into the Europa League last 16, with Emery satisfied his side passed a tough test on a demanding European night.
