Aston Villa is gearing up to meet Feyenoord at Stadion Feijenoord in their second UEFA Europa League match scheduled for October 2. Following their recent Premier League victory over Fulham, Villa holds the 16th spot in the league table with six points from six games.
In contrast, Feyenoord is enjoying a robust season in the Eredivisie, topping the standings with 19 points from seven games. Although they dropped points in a 0-1 defeat against Braga in their Europa opening match, they remain hopeful of changing their European fortunes.
Feyenoord faces several injury concerns with players like Malcolm Jeng and Gernot Trauner out due to Achilles issues, Thomas Beelen sidelined with a broken leg, and Quinten Timber dealing with a foot problem. Jakub Moder is also grappling with back pain.
Villa’s recent win brought some challenges as well, with John McGinn and Tyrone Mings sustaining injuries. Mings will miss the upcoming match. Meanwhile, coach Unai Emery is wary of risking Amadou Onana and Youri Tielemans, both recovering from injuries.
This game is the first official competitive meeting between Aston Villa and Feyenoord. Their last encounter was a friendly match in 2010, where Villa emerged victorious with a 3-1 score. The Feijenoord stadium is memorable for Villa fans as the venue of the 1982 European Cup triumph over Bayern Munich.
The much-anticipated clash kicks off at 9 p.m. local time in Rotterdam (3 p.m. ET). The officials include referee Rade Obrenovic, with Alen Borosak handling the VAR responsibilities.
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