Aston Villa vs Olympiacos LIVE: Europa Conference League latest updates as Watkins scores to pull one back

On Thursday evening, Aston Villa will battle it out against Olympiacos in the opening stage of their Europa Conference League semi-final. This marks the first time in more than forty years that the Midlands football team has reached the last four of a major European competition, which highlights the significant progress they have made this season. Not only are they contending for a spot in the top four of the Premier League, but they are also striving to secure a place in next year's Champions League, under the guidance of Unai Emery.

Throughout the entire season, Ollie Watkins has consistently performed exceptionally well, attracting praise both within his home country and abroad. As a result of his impressive displays, Villa can feel optimistic about their chances of achieving success.

This season, Olympiacos' competitors are vying for the title in the top league of Greece, holding onto fourth place but with a mere one point separating them from second place. Catch the first leg's updates below, and discover the latest betting odds and predictions for Aston Villa vs Olympiacos.

The game starts at 8pm and you can watch it live on TNT Sports.

Here is a possible rewritten version of the blog section: The starting lineup for Villa consists of Olsen in goal, Cash, Konsa, Lenglet, and Digne as defenders. In midfield, Bailey, McGinn, Luiz, and Rogers are expected to play together. Up front, Diaby and Watkins complete the XI for Villa.

Here's an alternative phrasing for the blog section: The starting line-up for Olympiacos consists of Tzolakis in goal, supported by defenders Rodinei, Retsos, Carmo, and Ortega. In midfield, the team features Hezze, Iborra, and Chiquinho, while attackers Podence, El Kaabi, and Fortounis round out the starting XI.

Bailey managed to score with a header from a short distance, however, Lenglet's misconduct led to the goal being invalidated.

Score! At the 16th minute mark, El Kaabi earns a point, despite an offside flag being raised - however, after a review by VAR, it is deemed valid! (0-1)

Goal! At the 28th minute mark, El Kaabi secures his second score by executing an impressive run and ending with a goal under Olsen's watch (0-2).

GOAL! At the 45th minute, Watkins scores an amazing goal just before the end of the first half (1-2).

Aston Villa Loses 1-2 To Olympiacos At 45' Mark

At 8:48 PM, Karl Matchett published a blog post.

Great decision, superb execution!

For a large part of the first half, Watkins wasn't really standing out, but then Cash and Diaby worked together. Watkins did a diagonal run, and his shot was really excellent - it went just where it needed to go, right past the keeper and into the far corner!

Returning to the match and the score is now tied, although Villa is still behind by one point. However, they managed to secure the goal they were hoping for before the end of the first half.

Olympiacos Triumphs 2-0 Against Aston Villa

At 8:46 PM, Karl Matchett wrote a blog post.

Bailey charges into the penalty area, fakes out his opponent, dashes past him, and falls down from being tackled. The referee quickly dismisses the call for a penalty as the audience shouts for it!

To put it simply, upon reviewing the footage, it appears that Ortega may have accidentally caused Bailey to fall on his way by, as one of Ortega's legs went in between Bailey's legs. However, the game continued without pause and the Video Assistant Referee did not signal for the main referee to take a second look.

Thankfully, the defender comes to the rescue. We are nearing the end of the game with only three minutes left.

Olympiacos Beat Aston Villa 2-0 In 42' Match

At 8:43 PM, Karl Matchett wrote a blog post.

The referee has reprimanded Cash for leaping directly over Podence to score a header. Villa's concentration appears to have waned on this occasion, and the fans are becoming increasingly enraged by the numerous calls that seem to be going against them. It must be noted, however, that the referee is making correct decisions; it's just that Olympiacos appears to be winning the game more efficiently than Villa.

Bailey is a prime example of attempting to hit the ball towards Podence, only to eventually surrender a corner.

Olympiacos Triumphs 2-0 Against Aston Villa

At 8:40 PM, Karl Matchett wrote a blog post.

Although a bit untidy, McGinn attempts a maneuver from the free-kick and manages to take a shot. However, this attempt is hindered and bounces off someone, leading to a deflection and going out of bounds. The Scottish player then proceeds to take the corner kick, but unfortunately, it's ineffective and is cleared by the first defender.

The Villa team requires him and a couple of additional players to improve and perform well, in order to have a chance of winning the game.

Luiz begins moving back towards his own half in order to achieve his goal. He wants to receive the ball and initiate attacks with increased speed and force. This action excites the supporters and motivates the team to perform with renewed energy.

Olympiacos Win 2-0 Against Aston Villa In 36' Match

At 8:38 PM, Karl Matchett wrote in his blog post.

The supporters of the home team are becoming a bit disgruntled with the opposing team's players constantly falling to the ground and causing interruptions in the match. Unfortunately, there's not much else to do other than become accustomed to it since teams at this level in Europe tend to use this tactic.

When Watkins gets fouled just outside the box, there's an excellent opportunity to make a threatening ball go into the box, from the right side.

Fiorentina is now in the lead, with Andrea Belotti scoring another goal, making the score 2-1.

Olympiacos Beats Aston Villa 2-0

At 8:36 PM, Karl Matchett wrote the blog section.

Bailey successfully passed his opponent and shot the ball into the net on the side, but it was deflected. Right before this, Cash fell down in the penalty area, but the referee didn't recognize it as a foul and allowed Bailey to take the shot.

During a break in play due to an injury, Unai Emery spent nearly three minutes chastising Olsen and Douglas Luiz.

Aston Villa Vs Olympiacos: Olympiacos Scores Twice!

At half past eight in the evening, Karl Matchett wrote this blog post.

Wow! There goes another goal! That was an excellent play followed by an impressive finish. Podence made a remarkable pass over the defence, and El Kaabi swiftly moved past the immobile centre-backs, gently nodded the ball past Olsen, and effortlessly tucked it into the goal post with his first-time finish after diving under the keeper.

Olympiacos won the match 2-0 and it's now a big challenge for Emery and his team.

Olympiacos Wins 1-0 Against Aston Villa - Live Update

At 8:28 pm, Karl Matchett wrote a blog post.

The Villa team are playing against a Greek club tonight. Unfortunately, things are not going very well for them. The referees have not made decisions in their favor for two opportunities to score goals.

In the second half, Olympiacos has been displaying a strong presence in midfield, hindering Villa from advancing into the opponent's territory and initiating their own quick counter-attacks.

Olympiacos Wins 1-0 Against Aston Villa - LIVE Updates

At 8:25 PM, Karl Matchett wrote in the blog.

Villa has to step up as they are having trouble connecting their passes and the opportunities that their wingers were creating have disappeared. Unai Emery seems worried as he walks along the sideline.

The match between Fiorentina and Club Brugge is currently tied at 1-1 in the other semi-final, with an equaliser scored by one of the teams.

The Europa League semi-final matches are underway with Roma playing Leverkusen and Marseille taking on Atalanta. Roma and Leverkusen are currently tied with a score of 0-0 while Marseille and Atalanta are deadlocked in a 1-1 tie.

Aston Villa Trails Olympiacos 0-1 At 16’ Mark - LIVE

At 8:19 PM, Karl Matchett wrote in the blog section.

It was now Olympiacos' time to rejoice and then be left confused. El Kaabi dashed through and successfully scored a goal against Olsen, but the referee's assistant immediately raised the offside flag.

Naturally, the decision is referred to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), and the referee is informed of a revised outcome - it appears that Cash did not commit an offsides offense and the Greek team has now taken the lead.

Live: Aston Villa Vs Olympiacos, 0-0 Draw In 14'

At 8:16pm, Karl Matchett wrote a blog post.

Villa had another opportunity to score but missed it. Diaby skillfully passed two opponents and sent the ball across the box, but Digne's shot was blocked by a defender who was very close.

Douglas Luiz is now attempting to score a goal, but the Olympiacos goalkeeper stops it with a bounce. Watkins seems to be experiencing discomfort with his arm, but he is pushing through and playing in the game.

Aston Villa Vs Olympiacos: Goalless At 9’ - LIVE

At 8:11 pm, Karl Matchett wrote in the blog section.

The Villa team successfully scored a goal, which prompted Bailey to run off in celebration. However, upon further inspection, the referee determined that the goal wouldn't count. The team had executed a clever play from a corner kick, passing the ball from the left side to the right. Konsa then crossed the ball back over to the six-yard box, where Bailey was left unguarded and able to head the ball into the net from a close distance.

Once again, it appears that Lenglet has committed a foul by pulling down his opponent in the center of the field, resulting in the disallowing of the goal.

Aston Villa Vs Olympiacos LIVE: 0-0 Draw

At 8:08 PM, Karl Matchett wrote in the blog.

Rogers made a fantastic move by accelerating and turning, surpassing his opponent. He then opened up his body and skillfully curled the ball towards the far corner with a low shot. Tzolakis had to stretch his body to the fullest to stop the ball and tip it wide.

The home team faced their first risky situation. Lenglet jumped and wrestled with his opponent during the corner, leading to a foul and missing the opportunity.

Following a shaky beginning, Villa seems to have gained composure and confidence in the past few minutes.

Aston Villa 0-0 Olympiacos: Match Updates

At 8:05 PM, Karl Matchett wrote this blog post.

What an opportunity! A high pass from Podence went towards the far post area, and Iborra found himself completely alone - he managed to head the ball, but Olsen just managed to tip it over the bar with his fingertips! It's possible that El Kaabi obstructed his shot a bit, but Villa was fortunate to avoid conceding a goal.

In the other semi-final, a goal has already been scored. Fiorentina currently has a 1-0 lead while playing at their home stadium against Club Brugge.

"Aston Villa Vs Olympiacos: Scoreless Draw - LIVE"

At 8:01 PM, Karl Matchett wrote the blog.

The match has commenced at Villa Park! Olympiacos is wearing a strip with a grey and orange pattern, while Villa is donning their usual colours. The atmosphere is electric, and this is an important game - let's do this!

Aston Villa Vs Olympiacos - Live Now

At 7:56 PM, Karl Matchett The blog post written by Karl Matchett needs to be rewritten in simpler English.

The athletes are currently in the tunnel and set to appear on the field at Villa Park. John McGinn is leading the Villa team out, while Robin Olsen is filling in as the goalkeeper. One can only wonder how much Emi Martinez's absence will impact tonight's game.

Aston Villa Vs Olympiacos - Watch Live Now!

At 7:45 PM, Karl Matchett wrote a blog post.

The news about European spots in Europe will surely affect Villa's aim to be in the top four, but they won't be concerned with that tonight and there's nothing they can do about it either. The game between Spurs and Chelsea is happening right now and you can follow it live on the blog if you'd like to.

Live updates from the Premier League match between Chelsea and Tottenham. Keep up-to-date with the latest news and developments as the teams face off in an exciting encounter.

Aston Villa V Olympiacos - LIVE

At 7:36 PM, Karl Matchett wrote in his blog.

The Bundesliga has secured the fifth spot in the Champions League for the next season, leaving the Premier League behind.

Two clubs, one from each of the two nations with the highest performance in European club competitions, will receive extra spots in the upcoming 36-team league phase that is set to launch during the 2024-25 season.

On Wednesday night, Borussia Dortmund claimed victory over Paris St Germain in their first semi-final match, securing Germany's second spot.

Last month, Italy concluded as the champion of the first "European Performance Spot" (EPS), resulting in England not being able to earn an additional spot in the Europa Conference League despite Aston Villa's performance.

Villa's goal is to secure the fourth position in the Premier League to be eligible for the Champions League. Although they are currently seven points ahead of Tottenham, the Spurs still have two matches to play, giving them a chance to catch up to Unai Emery‘s squad. Hence, Villa must work hard to maintain their position.

The second EPS would be advantageous for Dortmund since they are presently in fifth position in the Bundesliga.

In case Dortmund claims the victory in the Champions League for this season, the EPS would be guaranteed for the sixth-placed team, which is currently Eintracht Frankfurt.

Aston Villa Vs Olympiacos - Watch Live

At 7:26 PM, Karl Matchett wrote a blog post.

It's almost time for the match to start at Villa Park and the excitement is definitely growing... The supporters are giving the players an outstanding welcome for their initial European semi-final in 42 years!

Follow Aston Villa Vs Olympiacos - LIVE

At seven minutes past seven in the evening, Karl Matchett wrote a blog post.

And the team that came to visit's roster!

Daniel Podence, who played for Wolves previously in the Premier League, is present along with Vicente Iborra, a former midfielder for Leicester.

Olympiacos team lineup includes Tzolakis as the goalkeeper, with Rodinei, Retsos, Carmo, Ortega as the defenders and Hezze, Iborra, Chiquinho, Podence, El Kaabi, and Fortounis as the midfielders and forwards.

Aston Villa Versus Olympiacos - LIVE

It's currently 7:05 pm, according to Karl Matchett's post.

The Villa team has been announced - Olsen will be in goal as predicted and Rogers will retain his position after performing well in recent games.

Possible rewritten blog section: The starting lineup for Aston Villa features Olsen in goal, while Cash, Konsa, and Lenglet form the defensive line alongside Digne. In midfield, Bailey, McGinn, Luiz, and Rogers will be giving support and control, with Diaby and Watkins leading the attacking front. This selection of players reflects the diversity and talent of Villa's squad, which aims to maximize its potential and achieve success in the upcoming games.

Emery Trusts Villa's Backup Goalie Olsen

At 6:50 pm, Karl Matchett wrote in his blog section.

The manager of Aston Villa, Unai Emery, has stated that he completely trusts Robin Olsen, the backup goalkeeper, for their upcoming match on Thursday against Olympiacos for the first leg of the Europa League Conference semi-finals.

The Swedish player will take the field as the primary goalkeeper because Emiliano Martinez earned three yellow cards in the tournament and is suspended. Two of these yellow cards were obtained during the victory in the second leg of the quarter-finals against Lille.

It is possible that Olsen would have played regardless since Martinez got injured during the first half of the match against Chelsea and had to leave the field due to a hamstring injury. As a result, Olsen, who is 34 years old, was substituted in for the second half of the game.

Unai Emery has complete faith in Robin Olsen, who serves as Aston Villa's backup goalkeeper.

Aston Villa Vs Olympiacos - Watch Live

At 6:40 pm, Karl Matchett is all set to provide a is fully prepared to offer a comprehensive match analysis detailed match review of the latest football game. for the most recent soccer match. Readers can expect to gain insight into the tactics used by both teams, individual player performances, and any notable event that occurred during the game. Those who peruse the blog will acquire an understanding of the strategies employed by the competing sides, as well as the abilities of each player, and any significant happenings that developed throughout the match.

The next game for tonight is Fiorentina against Club Brugge. It's expected that the victorious team from this match and the previous one will be playing against each other in the final.

Villa's rivals have one more reason to give their all in the upcoming Europa Conference League final: it's going down in Athens this year.

We will also keep you updated on the Europa League semi-finals that are being played tonight.

All games begin at 8 o'clock in the evening according to British Standard Time.

"Gems And Misfits Shaping Olympiacos' Greek History."

At 6:30 PM, Karl Matchett wrote in the blog section.

Aston Villa is the sole remaining English team in European football and is getting ready for a semi-final match in the Europa Conference League. However, they are confident that they will eventually climb the ranks of European club football and advance beyond the third tier.

Olympiacos is facing one of their most significant challenges in recent times, and they are relying on players who were previously abandoned by Premier League clubs.

Thrylos is making their debut in a European semi-final, but they have faced many challenges along the road to reaching the final four.

In this article, we will explore the football team that will be competing against Villa tonight, as examined by Nathan Edwards.

The players who struggled in the Premier League are now the ones leading Olympiacos to create a historical moment in Greek football.

Aston Villa Vs Olympiacos - Now Live!

At 6:20 PM, The Independent reported...

The match that will happen tonight will be broadcasted on TNT Sports. To enjoy watching it, you can get a subscription for TNT Sports through discovery+ by paying a monthly fee of just £30.99.

Suppose you're going on a trip to another country and wish to watch important sports matches. In that case, you might require a VPN to access your streaming apps. To provide assistance, we have curated a list of VPN options available in the market, including discounted offers. If you use a VPN, it's crucial to adhere to local legislation and the service provider's terms and conditions.

In this piece, we might receive remuneration from a few of the connections, though we consistently ensure that this has no sway over our content. Such earnings contribute towards supporting journalism all over The Independent.

Aston Villa Vs Olympiacos - Watch Live!

At 6:10 pm, Karl Matchett wrote the blog post.

Aston Villa and Olympiacos are competing against each other for a spot in the European final, as they cross paths in the semi-final stage of the Europa Conference League.

Unai Emery's team managed to secure a victory against Lille in the quarterfinals after a nail-biting penalty shootout. This win allowed them to have the upper hand and the home advantage in the first leg of the two-part match.

Fenerbahce's Greek rivals also relied on penalties to secure their victory. Konstantinos Tzolakis, the goalkeeper, distinguished himself by saving three penalties, further solidifying his potential and promising future in the sport.

Whoever wins the match will face either Fiorentina or Club Brugge in the Athens final on May 29th.

Get ready to learn all you need to know.

Will Aston Villa and Olympiacos be broadcasted on television? What time does the game start, what channel is it on, and how can it be viewed?

Stream Online: Aston Villa Vs Olympiacos Match Live Streaming

At 5:42 PM, Karl Matchett wrote in the blog section.

Greetings and a warm welcome to the Independent's latest update on the Europa Conference League semi-final first leg match. Aston Villa is playing at home against Olympiacos, a team from Greece.

This is a huge opportunity for the Premier League team to win a trophy. They have been playing really well under Unai Emery and they might even finish in the top four in England. However, right now they are focused on winning a European trophy, so they need to do well in the first leg of their match tonight.

Keep an eye out for updates on the team information and preparation leading up to the game.