In the Conference League, AZ lost 2-1 to Aston Villa. Both teams kept each other in balance for a long time, but in the final phase Ollie Watkins became the match winner for the home team. Wintering in Europe is now virtually impossible for AZ.
After just two minutes of football, AZ seemed to be falling behind, but Clément Lenglet’s header was disallowed by the VAR. Then a somewhat boring phase of the match began.
Towards half time, the Alkmaarders became more dangerous. Pavlidis managed to score, but that goal was also disallowed. Just before half time, Aston-Villa goalkeeper Martinez had to take action twice, but no goals were scored.
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After the break, AZ became stronger. On the edge of offside, Pavlidis scored the opening goal for AZ. The VAR still had to be involved, but approved the goal. The Alkmaarders could not enjoy the lead for long, because in the sixtieth minute it was Diego Carlos who managed to head in from an unjustified corner.
Aston Villa on roses
With about ten minutes to go, Aston Villa took the lead. Ollie Watkins headed in. AZ went looking for the equalizer, but failed.
Legia Warsaw remains the leader in group E of the Conference League after the 2-0 win over Zrinjski Mostar. AZ is last, six points behind Legia Warsaw and Aston Villa.
Line-up: Ryan; Sugawara, Bazoer, Martins Indi, Møller Wolfe; Clasie (Dantas/88), Mijnans (Odgaard/88), De Wit (Mihailovic/66); Sadiq (Poku/69), Pavlidis, Van Bommel (Van Brederode/69).