Aston Villa: Emi Martinez grabs headlines amid controversy v Lille, Chris Sutton loves it
Emi Martinez grabbed headlines yet again with his performance in the victory on penalties against Lille in the Europa Conference League amid controversy surrounding a yellow card.
It looked to all the world as if the goalkeeper had been sent off early into the shootout when the referee brandished his second yellow card of the game, but it was later explained that cards reset if a game goes to penalties.
However, despite the controversy, it was his performance again that saw Unai Emery’s team qualify for the next round despite a poor display in the game.
Chris Sutton took to X following the game [18 April] as he shared: “You’ve got to love Emi Martinez”.
Emi Martinez makes headlines again as Aston Villa win v Lille
Aside from his antics with the referee, Martinez proved once again why he is one of the best in the world from 12 yards as well as putting in an impressive performance overall.
His two penalty saves, matched by his dancing and taunting celebrations, rescued a victory for Aston Villa, but with two saves made from inside the box, one clearance and one high claim, he proved his worth yet again on the big stage. [Sofascore]
That confidence in goal was echoed by his performance with the ball at his feet as he completed a 100 per cent success rate running out with the ball, as well as winning 100 per cent of his ground duels and 100 per cent of his aerial duels.
He also attempted 25 long passes, made one clearance and drew one foul as he shone despite a disappointing display which saw Villa outperformed in almost every metric with less possession (48 per cent), fewer shots (nine compared to 12) and a lower xG (0.87 to 1.43).
As controversial as ever on the pitch, Martinez continues to prove his worth to Aston Villa and he was the hero yet again in the penalty shootout victory sending Emery’s side further on their way to winning European silverware.
In other Aston Villa news, read our player ratings v Lille.
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