Aston Villa demolished Nottingham Forest 4-0 at Villa Park to claim a dominant Europa League victory, with John McGinn scoring twice in the second half to seal a commanding performance.
Aston Villa delivered a clinical display in the UEFA Europa League as they swept aside Nottingham Forest with a comprehensive 4-0 victory. The result moves Villa top of their group with two wins from two matches, while Forest remains rooted to the bottom after picking up just one point from their opening fixtures.
Villa struck first in the 36th minute when Ollie Watkins found the net. The forward latched onto a loose ball in the box and finished with composure to give the hosts a deserved lead at the break. Nottingham Forest offered little resistance in the opening period, with their defense struggling to contain Villa's attacking play.
Forest's task grew harder when they conceded a penalty just after the hour mark. Emiliano Buendía stepped up in the 58th minute and calmly converted from the spot to double Villa's advantage. The Spanish midfielder's clinical finish appeared to have settled the contest.
The second half saw Villa shift through the gears. Their midfield controlled proceedings with 51 percent possession and 372 completed passes. Forest managed just two shots on target throughout the entire match, highlighting their defensive struggles.
McGinn took center stage as Villa put the game beyond doubt. The Scottish midfielder fired in a third goal in the 77th minute, then added a fourth just three minutes later to complete a dominant display. His double capped a powerful Villa performance.
Villa's attacking prowess was evident in their statistics. They registered 18 total shots, with 10 finding the target. Their expected goals total of 2.5 reflected their quality play. Forest managed only five shots in response, with just two on target.
Buendía emerged as Villa's standout performer with a rating of 9.5. The midfielder scored once and provided an assist while creating four key passes. McGinn's rating of 8.7 reflected his crucial contribution with two goals from three shots on target.
Forest offered minimal threat throughout. They accumulated just 12 fouls and two yellow cards through Morato and Cunha. Their goalkeeper made six saves but faced a relentless barrage from Villa's attacking players.
Villa's defensive solidity was equally impressive. They kept a clean sheet while limiting Forest's opportunities. Pau Torres and Ezri Konsa controlled the backline effectively, allowing their team to focus on attacking play.
The victory represents a perfect start to Villa's Europa League campaign. Two wins from two matches have established them as serious contenders in the competition. Forest, meanwhile, must regroup quickly as they search for their first win in the tournament.
Villa's next challenge comes as they continue their European adventure. Forest faces an uphill battle to salvage their campaign after this heavy defeat at Villa Park.
