MONACO: Monaco ground out a 1-0 home win against Aston Villa in the Champions League on Tuesday, denying the Premier League side the chance to all but book their spot in the round of 16.
Wilfried Singo’s early header was the difference between the teams as Villa tasted defeat for the first time in six outings in all competitions.
Monaco had only won two of their last 11 matches, including back-to-back defeats in the Champions League, but now have their eyes on securing progress to the knock-outs.
The defeat dropped Villa from fifth to seventh provisionally. They can qualify automatically for the last-16 with a top-eight finish.
“We started the Champions League not being favorites to finish in the top eight, and we still aren’t. Tonight we are disappointed,” said Villa manager Unai Emery.
Emery’s side host 21st-placed Celtic in their final league phase match next week.
Villa and Monaco are among nine teams on 13 points, ahead of the rest of this week’s matches, a pack headed by Arsenal in fourth place in the table with Monaco in ninth
Monaco conclude their league phase campaign with a visit to Italian champions Inter Milan — also on 13 points ahead of a visit to Prague on Wednesday — knowing nothing but a win will do to avoid a play-off spot.
“We have one match remaining which will be very difficult. We are going to go to Milan next week with a lot of ambition and to win,” said Singo.
Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez’s every touch was booed by the home support in the early stages — the crowd had not forgotten his role in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup final victory over France.
To the delight of their fans, Monaco’s opener came after the Argentinian parried Thilo Kehrer’s header from a corner up into the air. Singo pounced to nod home from close range on eight minutes.
Martinez showed his class with a sprawling dive to claw away Maghnes Akliouche’s whipped effort shortly afterwards.
Villa came within inches of levelling in first-half added time following excellent build-up play by Emiliano Buendia, but Radoslaw Majecki got down quickly to deny Ollie Watkins.
At the start of the second period, Morgan Rogers flashed a strike narrowly wide, before Akliouche had a strike disallowed for offside.
Emery turned to Jhon Duran from the bench to give his side a spark, sending on the Colombian 11 minutes after the interval in place of winger Bailey.
With Watkins and Duran on the pitch together, Villa boasted a striking duo with 22 goals between in all competitions this term.
Rogers and Matty Cash combined to create Villa’s next chance, the right-back dragging his effort across goal and wide on 69 minutes.
Monaco looked the more likely to score in the final 20 minutes.
Aleksandr Golovin rippled the side netting from a tight angle in the 88th minute.
Duran then attempted a bicycle-kick in the crowded box in the 92nd minute, but his ambitious effort flew well over the bar as Monaco held firm.
“It was an important win,” said Monaco coach Adi Huetter. “I give compliments and praise to my team for how they fought.”
Monaco down Villa to boost Champions League qualification hopes
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Monaco down Villa to boost Champions League qualification hopes
- Wilfried Singo’s early header was the difference between the teams as Villa tasted defeat for the first time in six outings in all competitions
- The defeat dropped Villa from fifth to seventh provisionally. They can qualify automatically for the last-16 with a top-eight finish
Poulter, Westwood to continue as Majesticks GC co-captains for 2026 LIV Golf season
London: British golfing icons Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood have re-signed with Majesticks GC as co-captains for the 2026 LIV Golf season, the team confirmed on Tuesday.
The Ryder Cup legend and former world number one will once again lead the side alongside fellow Englishman and former European Open champion Laurie Canter, who joins the team ahead of the new campaign.
Foundational figures in the creation and evolution of Majesticks GC, Poulter and Westwood bring more than 60 years of combined professional experience as the team enters the next phase of its development. Both players have played a central role in shaping the club’s identity, standards and culture since its inception.
The duo’s contrasting but complementary leadership styles have been a defining feature of Majesticks GC. Westwood’s calm and clinical approach has balanced Poulter’s intensity, charisma and competitive edge, helping to establish the team as one of the most recognizable outfits on the LIV Golf circuit.
Poulter, who has recorded victories on both the PGA Tour and DP World Tour, said he was eager to continue his journey with the team.
“I’ve been part of Majesticks Golf Club from day one, and am excited to continue on that journey as a player and co-captain,” he said. “What we’ve built here, both on and off the course, is special, with a clear long-term vision. LIV Golf has changed the game in ways that excite both players and fans, and being part of that evolution has been incredible. Re-signing for 2026 is an easy decision for me. I’m as motivated as ever, and I can’t wait to help drive this team forward into the 2026 season.”
Team principal James Dunkley highlighted Poulter’s influence within the squad, saying: “Ian is a hugely important part of this team. He sets standards, inspires everyone around him, and brings a level of energy and passion that instills belief in us all. His influence, both competitively and culturally, is enormous, and having both him and Lee back for 2026 is a major boost.”
Co-team principal Oliver Banks added: “Ian brings a unique skillset and personality to the sport. He’s a leader, an innovator and a personality who embodies what Majesticks Golf Club is about. His connection with fans, his passion and commitment to pushing the sport forward make him invaluable.”
Westwood, one of the most consistent performers of his generation, brings more than three decades of elite experience to the team, including multiple international victories and a spell at the top of the world rankings. His composed presence and technical understanding have been central to Majesticks GC’s development.
“It’s fantastic to continue this journey with Majesticks GC,” Westwood said. “What we’ve built together over the last few years has been incredibly rewarding, and the progression we’re making as a team and as part of LIV Golf is nothing short of incredible. I’m committed to helping push us forward in 2026 and contributing in every way I can, both as a player and a leader.”
Dunkley described Westwood’s impact as fundamental to the club’s structure. “Lee’s influence runs deep through this organization. His leadership style is measured and insightful, and brings immense experience to the team, helping to drive our standards. Having one of the best players in the game back for 2026 strengthens our foundation for the season ahead.”
Banks echoed those sentiments, adding: “Lee is integral to the Majesticks identity. He brings authenticity, knowledge and a strong sense of purpose to everything he does. His presence is felt throughout the team, and we’re delighted to continue building with him as we pursue our aspirations.”
Majesticks GC will look to build on that continuity of leadership as they prepare for the 2026 LIV Golf season.
