Aston Villa's quest for European glory continues as they prepare to face Club Brugge at the Jan Breydelstadion, carrying an opportunity to achieve a remarkable milestone. Unai Emery's squad could become just the fourth team in European competition history to win their first four matches without conceding a goal, joining the elite company of AC Milan (1993), Paris Saint-Germain (1994), and Juventus (1995).
European journey so far
The Birmingham-based club has made an impressive return to European football after 41 years, securing three straight wins against Young Boys, Bayern Munich, and Bologna. Their defensive display has been exceptional, with three clean sheets placing them at the summit of their group.
The victory over Bayern Munich particularly highlighted their ability to compete at the highest level, drawing parallels with successful European debutants like Málaga and Leicester City.
Team news
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery faces selection challenges ahead of the crucial fixture. Ross Barkley remains unavailable due to injury, whilst Matty Cash's participation hangs in the balance following a knock during the recent 4-1 loss to Tottenham. The return of midfielder Boubacar Kamara from injury provides a welcome boost to the squad.
In-form striker Jhon Durán, with eight goals this season, is likely to start ahead of Ollie Watkins. Morgan Rogers should feature despite carrying minor injuries, whilst the midfield duo of Youri Tielemans and Amadou Onana will be crucial in controlling the game's pace.
Predicted lineups
Club Brugge (Possible XI): Mignolet, Seys, Ordonez, Mechele, De Cuyper, Jashari, Vetlesen, Skov Olsen, Vanaken, Tzolis, Vermant
Aston Villa (Predicted XI): Martinez, Konsa, Carlos, Torres, Maatsen Kamara, Tielemans, McGinn, Rogers, Ramsey, Durán
Club Brugge challenge
The Belgian side enters the match with significant hurdles to overcome. Midfielder Raphael Onyedika's absence due to suspension following his red card against AC Milan weakens their midfield options. Their Champions League campaign has been challenging, with just one victory and six goals conceded in the group stage.
The hosts will rely heavily on Hans Vanaken and goalkeeper Simon Mignolet as they attempt to end their 14-match winless streak against English teams. Despite their European struggles, Club Brugge's recent domestic form shows promise, with four victories in their last five matches across all competitions.
The match kicks off at 17:45 GMT under the supervision of German referee Tobias Stieler, as Villa aims to maintain their perfect European record whilst Club Brugge seeks to revive their campaign.