Villa coach Emery fumes as Forest star Anderson escapes red card

Unai Emery condemned the decision not to send off Elliot Anderson as Aston Villa fell 1‑0 to Nottingham Forest in the Europa League semi‑final first leg. Chris Wood’s second‑half penalty, awarded after a Lucas Digne handball, secured a narrow win at the City Ground, but Emery was incensed by Anderson’s first‑half challenge on Ollie Watkins. Calling VAR “so, so bad”, he insisted the foul was a “clear red card” and accused officials of a “huge mistake”.

Despite the setback, Emery stressed that Villa can overturn the tie at home. Forest manager Vítor Pereira praised his side’s spirit, noting the club’s first European semi‑final appearance since 1983‑84. He highlighted tactical discipline and the supporters’ influence as key factors. Forest, twice European Cup winners, now head to Villa Park on 7 May aiming for their first continental final since 1980. Pereira said he was proud of his players and their mentality in a demanding season.