Manchester United vs Aston Villa: VAR Drama Mars Thrilling Premier League Clash
By Daniel Davis, Chris Wheeler, and Nathan Salt | Updated: 17:31 BST, 25 May 2025
Old Trafford hosted a controversial Premier League showdown between Manchester United and Aston Villa.
In a match riddled with controversy, Manchester United and Aston Villa played out a chaotic 2-2 draw at Old Trafford, with VAR taking center stage and Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez receiving a late red card. The result left Ruben Amorim’s Villa frustrated as they sought redemption after their Europa League final heartbreak.
Pre-Match Context
Aston Villa arrived at Old Trafford determined to shake off their midweek Europa League final defeat, while United aimed to secure a top-four finish. The stakes were high, and tensions flared early in a physical first half.
First-Half Fireworks
Villa struck first in the 22nd minute when Ollie Watkins capitalized on a defensive error, slotting past United’s goalkeeper. However, United responded swiftly: Alejandro Garnacho volleyed home a stunning equalizer just seven minutes later.
Garnacho’s electrifying volley brought Old Trafford to life.
VAR Denies Villa
The game’s turning point came in the 53rd minute. Douglas Luiz thought he’d put Villa back ahead with a deflected shot, but VAR intervened, ruling Leon Bailey offside in the buildup. The decision sparked fury among Villa players and staff, with manager Amorim booked for protesting.
Martínez Sees Red
Chaos escalated in the 68th minute when Martínez, already on a yellow, clattered into United’s Rasmus Højlund while chasing a loose ball. Referee Michael Oliver showed no hesitation, issuing a second yellow and reducing Villa to 10 men.
Martínez’s dismissal left Villa scrambling defensively.
United pressed their advantage, and Bruno Fernandes converted a 76th-minute penalty after a handball call against Matty Cash. But Villa’s resilience shone through as substitute Jhon Durán headed in an 89th-minute leveler against the run of play.
Post-Match Reactions
Amorim blasted the officiating: “The disallowed goal changed everything. We’re tired of VAR inconsistencies.” Meanwhile, United boss Erik ten Hag lamented missed chances: “We controlled the game but lacked ruthlessness.”
Key Moments
- 22’: Watkins opens scoring for Villa.
- 29’: Garnacho’s volley equalizes.
- 53’: Luiz’s goal overturned by VAR.
- 68’: Martínez sent off.
- 76’: Fernandes penalty puts United ahead.
- 89’: Durán stuns Old Trafford with late header.
Durán’s header salvaged a dramatic point for 10-man Villa.
League Implications
The draw leaves United in fifth place, two points shy of fourth, while Villa remain seventh. Both teams face critical fixtures next week to secure European qualification.
Final Score: Manchester United 2-2 Aston Villa
Attendance: 73,594
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