Saturday’s 2-1 victory over Nottingham Forest closed out a satisfying and impressive week for Villa, having also dispatched Brighton and progressing to the FA Cup semifinals. One week, three matches, three victories, with the last being the hardest of the lot. The difficulty now goes up another level with PSG away.
Villa rescued a point at the Emirates Saturday evening in match that looked to be beyond redemption after Arsenal went 2-0 to the good. The outrage-despair machine is running at full capacity, and it’s fun to be part of the Gunners’ problems for a second year running.
Another Boxing Day, another breakdown. Naturally it was disappointing, as was the officiating that contributed to it. That’s been much more the focus than the match itself, which is never a good thing.
Leipzig are a good side with plenty of CL experience that hasn’t yet won in this year’s competition after a very tough string of opponents. They’re also the second-most high-pressing team in the competition. So far, no German team has beaten an English side in this year’s edition. These are the kinds of things you don’t like to read.
I think if I’m Emery, I’m challenging the squad to show they’re Champions League quality tonight. To show that even in adversity, they can come out and be smart, disciplined, and committed. Think of it as an away fixture in the knockout rounds.
