Aston Villa hit Fenerbahce for six in record European win
Aston Villa recorded the biggest European win in their history by crushing Fenerbahce 6-0 at Villa Park, a result that preserved their perfect Champions League start and delivered their first home victory of the season.
Key takeaways
- Nicolas Jackson scored twice, while Johan Manzambi, Tammy Abraham and Ross Barkley, with two goals, completed the six-goal rout.
- Villa led 3-0 at the break but goalkeeper Zion Suzuki made key saves and Oguz Aydin struck the bar for Fenerbahce.
- Barkley took and scored a 68th-minute penalty despite Jackson seeking the chance to complete a hat-trick.
- Manzambi marked his 21st birthday with his first Champions League appearance and first goal in the competition.
- The defeat came on Mason Greenwood’s first match in England since January 2022.
Emery demands more after landmark win
Unai Emery praised the scoreline and the value of three points, but insisted Villa had not been fully in control during the opening half despite building a commanding lead.
Manzambi struck on his birthday before Jackson finished twice to put the hosts 3-0 ahead. Fenerbahce still created dangerous moments, however, with Suzuki stopping Vedat Muriqi and Aydin hitting the crossbar.
Emery said Villa were pleased to finally win at home but were unhappy with elements of their first-half display. He felt the side addressed those issues after the interval, defended more effectively and added another three goals, while admitting the visitors did not merit such a heavy defeat.
The Villa manager pointed to the variety in his team’s attacking threat, citing set pieces, pressing and transition play as routes to goal. He said the squad’s structure was strong but still needed time, adding that the new arrivals were increasingly finding the right balance.
Villa’s aim, Emery said, is to play a major role in the Champions League rather than merely make up the numbers. The result leaves them near the top of the league-phase table after maximum points from two matches.
Barkley penalty call and Manzambi’s milestone night
Jackson had the opportunity to claim the match ball when Manzambi was brought down by Ismail Yuksek in the 68th minute. The forward wanted the penalty, but Emery confirmed Barkley had been selected as Villa’s designated taker.
Barkley converted confidently, then scored again four minutes later when his effort deflected beyond Fenerbahce goalkeeper Ederson.
Jackson said the team victory mattered more than his missed hat-trick opportunity and hoped another chance would come. He also hailed Manzambi as a high-level player and said he was enjoying their growing partnership.
The striker additionally backed Senegal team-mate Ibrahim Mbaye, describing the youngster as quick and talented, and said he hoped the forward would receive more playing time.
Manzambi called it an extraordinary occasion after scoring in his Champions League debut in front of his family. The 21-year-old highlighted Villa’s clean sheet, the six goals and the support inside the stadium.
Villa return to European action next week when Norwegian side Viking visit Villa Park. Emery’s side will also look to use the emphatic result as a launchpad for improved domestic form during the 2026-27 campaign.
