Aston Villa’s Europa Conference League campaign came to an end at the semi-final stage as Olympiakos secured a 2-0 victory in Greece, advancing to the final with a 6-2 aggregate win.
After losing the first leg 4-2, Villa faced an uphill battle in the second leg. Despite dominating possession, Unai Emery’s side struggled to convert their chances, allowing Olympiakos to capitalize on counter-attacks.
Ayoub El Kaabi, who scored a hat-trick in the first leg, opened the scoring for Olympiakos in the 10th minute, tapping in Marin Ruiz’s cross. He doubled his tally late in the game with a well-taken shot, sealing the victory for the Greek side.
Villa, hoping to reach their first European final since 1982, were unable to mount a comeback. The defeat means there will be no English club in a European final for the first time in four seasons.
While Villa’s trophy drought continues, Olympiakos will play in their first European final, facing Fiorentina at the home of rivals AEK Athens on 29 May.
Despite their historic run, Olympiakos had never advanced beyond the quarter-finals of a UEFA competition before this season. Under the guidance of coach Jose Luis Mendilibar, they defied the odds and secured their place in the final, marking a significant moment in Greek football history.