Few expected to see Club Brugge in the Champions League Round of 16. Nicky Hayen’s team finished 24th in the league stage and was the clear underdog in the preliminary playoff round against Atalanta. However, the Blue-Black won 2-1 at home and consolidated their success with a 3-1 away victory.
Meanwhile, in the Belgian Pro League, things are not going as well for Club Brugge. They are in second place, trailing leaders Genk by 9 points. According to the regulations, after the regular season ends, the points of the teams in the championship group will be halved, so the battle for the championship for Club Brugge is still ahead.
In the previous match, Club Brugge drew 1-1 away with Gent, following a 1-2 defeat to Standard Liège.
Aston Villa, unlike Club Brugge, reached the Round of 16 directly. Unai Emery’s team surprisingly finished eighth with 16 points. During the tournament, Aston Villa lost only to Monaco (0-1) and the same Club Brugge (0-1).
In the English Premier League, Aston Villa is fighting for a spot in European competitions. With 42 points, they are currently in 10th place. However, the Birmingham club could even qualify for the Champions League, as they are only 4 points behind Chelsea, who are fifth. The fifth spot at the end of the season may secure a Champions League berth.
Over the weekend, Aston Villa defeated Cardiff City at home to reach the FA Cup quarterfinals. Before that, they unexpectedly lost to Crystal Palace 1-4, defeated Chelsea 2-1, and drew with Liverpool 2-2.
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