Aston Villa secured a top-eight finish and a place in the Europa League last 16 with a gritty 1-0 win at Fenerbahce. Jadon Sancho's first-half header, assisted by a flick off Ismail Yüksek, was enough as Marco Bizot made eight crucial saves in the absence of injured Emi Martinez.

The victory ended Fenerbahce's formidable home record in Europe and extended Villa's remarkable run to six wins from seven matches. Despite injury setbacks and a disallowed Morgan Rogers goal, Unai Emery's side showed defensive resolve to hold on in a tense second half under the Sukru Saracoglu lights.

With their progression already sealed, Villa's final group match against RB Salzburg next week is a mere formality. The club now shifts focus to domestic matters, but this European success builds crucial momentum for a side aiming to challenge on multiple fronts this season.