Aston Villa have been crowned 2025/26 UEFA Europa League champions after a dominant 3-0 victory over SC Freiburg in Wednesday’s final in Istanbul.

The Premier League side delivered a clinical performance at Beşiktaş Stadium, sealing their first Europa League title and first major European trophy since 1982.

Tielemans, Buendía and Rogers seal victory

Villa took control of the final before halftime after Youri Tielemans opened the scoring in the 41st minute.

Emiliano Buendía doubled the lead deep into first-half stoppage time, giving the English side full momentum heading into the break.

Morgan Rogers added the third goal in the 58th minute to complete a comfortable victory for Unai Emery’s men.

Tielemans was later named Player of the Match following his commanding display in midfield.

Historic night for Aston Villa

The triumph marks Aston Villa’s first UEFA Cup or Europa League title and their first major European success since lifting the European Cup in 1982.

It also further strengthens the reputation of manager Unai Emery, who has now won the Europa League five times during his managerial career.

Villa’s victory caps an impressive season that also secured qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League.

Freiburg fall short in first European final

For Freiburg, the defeat ended a remarkable European journey that saw the German side reach their first-ever continental final.

Despite impressive victories over several European opponents during the competition, they struggled to break down Villa’s organised defence and attacking efficiency in the final.

The result has sparked celebrations among Villa supporters, with many describing it as the club’s return to Europe’s elite stage after decades away from major continental success.