Aston Villa defeated Maccabi Tel Aviv 2-0 in a Europa League match held on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at Villa Park. Goals from Ian Maatsen and Donyell Malen secured the victory for the home side. The match took place amidst heightened security concerns and a planned protest, as Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters were not permitted to travel to Birmingham for the game.
Aston Villa controlled much of the first half, with Morgan Rogers and Malen testing Maccabi's goalkeeper, Roi Mishpati. Maccabi Tel Aviv responded with Dor Peretz forcing a save from Aston Villa's Emiliano Martinez. Just before halftime, in the 45th minute, Rogers set up Maatsen, who scored with a shot that went in off the underside of the bar.
Villa continued to press in the second half. In the 58th minute, Aston Villa extended their lead when Elad Madmon was penalized for a foul on Ezri Konsa in the penalty area. Malen calmly converted the penalty, shooting low to the keeper's right to double Villa's advantage. Malen had a chance to add another goal, but Mishpati saved his attempt from a tight angle. John McGinn's cross was also deflected against Ollie Watkins, but Villa did not need any further goals.
Maatsen's goal was his first of the Europa League campaign, adding to his strong performances this season. Malen's penalty marked another contribution to his productive season with Aston Villa. Both players have been key figures in Aston Villa's European campaign.
The decision to disallow Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from attending the match was met with criticism, even from Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Maccabi Tel Aviv announced they would not take up their ticket allocation, citing a "toxic atmosphere being created which makes the safety of our fans wishing to attend very much in doubt". There was a protest planned ahead of the game, with approximately 700 police officers on duty.
Unai Emery celebrated his third anniversary as Aston Villa manager on the day of the match. Under his leadership, Villa has an impressive home record in European games, winning 13 out of 15, including qualifiers. In 2025, they have won all five of their home matches.
Statistically, Aston Villa dominated the match, with an expected goals (xG) tally of 1.98 compared to Maccabi's 1.02. Villa had 13 shots, while Maccabi only managed six. This victory puts Aston Villa in a strong position in their Europa League group, currently sitting sixth in the standings. They are five points clear of missing out on at least a play-off spot. Aston Villa will aim to continue their strong form as they progress further in the Europa League.
