Preview: Villa aiming to seal progress against Maccabi Tel Aviv
Aston Villa host Maccabi Tel Aviv in the Europa League group phase on November 6, 2025. The fourth matchday offers a crucial chance for Villa to cement their position at the top of the group, especially after a mixed start to the season at home and abroad. Villa, under Unai Emery, have won two of their first three Europa League games and will be eager to extend that healthy record against a Maccabi side still seeking a first win in the group.
Recent form and context
Villa delivered two wins from three Europa League matches as part of a broader season that has included a 2-0 Premier League defeat at Liverpool recently. The loss at Anfield was tough but not disastrous for a side aiming to balance domestic duties with European responsibility. In contrast, Maccabi Tel Aviv are winless in their group campaign, having dropped points in key fixtures and conceding multiple goals. That disparity in form should give Villa confidence, especially if they can impose control in the midfield and exploit the pace on the flanks.
Key matchups to watch
- Villa’s attacking trio versus Maccabi’s backline — pace and movement could unlock tight moments.
- The battle in midfield to win second balls and transition quickly to attack.
- Set-piece discipline: both teams can hurt at dead balls, so defending and attacking corners could decide this game.
Team news and tactical angles
Villa are likely to stick with a familiar 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 setup, leveraging wide players who can stretch Maccabi’s back line. In Emery’s system, the pressing triggers and quick distribution from the back will be key. Early reports suggest no major injuries for Villa, allowing a relatively settled XI that previously produced favorable results.
Maccabi Tel Aviv arrive eager to break their winless streak. Expect a pragmatic game plan: compact defensive lines, quick counter-attacks, and attempts to exploit any gaps left by Villa when they push high. They will need discipline against set pieces and a well-timed press to disrupt Villa’s build-up play.
Predictions and betting tips
Prediction: Aston Villa 2-1 Maccabi Tel Aviv. Villa’s attacking depth and European experience give them the edge, but Tel Aviv can be dangerous on the counter and will hope to frustrate Villa with disciplined defense.
Betting tips:
– Match result: Villa to win (short odds) – favored based on domestic form and group standings.
– Both teams to score: Yes – given Villa’s attacking options and Maccabi’s ability to strike on the break.
– Over/Under goals: Over 2.5 – with Villa seeking to secure three points and Maccabi not backing down in Europe.
Alternative bets: If you’re looking for smaller risk, consider Villa to win to nil if the defense holds firm or Villa to win by exactly one goal as a safer margin given the nature of European midweek fixtures.
Why this matters for the group standings
With the group still wide open, a Villa win would strengthen their position and potentially set up a decisive final matchday. For Maccabi, collecting points away from home is essential to keep themselves within reach of qualification if results elsewhere go their way. The match could hinge on Villa’s ability to control tempo and minimize counter-attacks while executing clinical finishing in key moments.
Bottom line
Aston Villa will view this as a must-take opportunity to secure progression, leveraging their familiarity with European competition. Maccabi Tel Aviv will aim to disruptVilla’s rhythm and grab a point on the road. Expect a tense, open affair with chances for both sides and a likely Villa win that keeps their group hopes alive.
