Roundup of Semi-Final action in 2023-24 UEFA Europa Conference League.
Unai Emery’s Aston Villa looked to reach their first European Final since they won 1981-82 European Cup, but faced difficult opposition from Greece’s Olympiacos.
Last season’s runner-up, Fiorentina meanwhile looked to secure their spot in a second consecutive final in this competition, although they would have to overcome Club Brugge to make that ambition a reality.
Aston Villa 2-6 Olympiacos
Ayoub El Kaabi’s first-leg hat-trick and Santiago Hezze’s deflected strike saw Olympiacos beat Villa 4-2 away in the first leg at Villa Park, despite Ollie Watkins and Moussa Diaby having dragged the Villains back to 2-2 before El Kaabi’s third goal from the penalty spot.
El Kaabi’s brace at home in the second leg ultimately saw Olympiacos win 2-0 which sealed a 6-2 aggregate win over Aston Villa.
Fiorentina 4-3 Club Brugge
Hans Vanaken’s penalty and Thiago’s 63rd minute effort saw Club Brugge twice cancel out goals from Riccardo Sottil and Andrea Belotti, before the Belgian club’s fightback proved in vain after M’Bala Nzola netted a 91st minute winner in a 3-2 first leg win for Fiorentina at home.
Lucas Beltran’s 85th minute penalty equaliser then proved enough for Fiorentina to win 4-3 on aggregate after a comeback 1-1 draw in the second leg, having initially fell behind to Vanaken’s 20th minute goal for Brugge.