A number of Lille fans reportedly tried to make a run at Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
On Thursday night, Villa travelled to the Decathlon Arena - Stade Pierre-Mauroy as they looked to secure a place in the Europa Conference League semi-finals against French side Lille.
Unai Emery's men are defending a narrow lead after winning the first leg 2-1 at Villa Park.
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Ahead of the match, there were reports that the home fans were preparing a hostile atmosphere for Villa goalkeeper Martinez.
The Argentina goalkeeper was heavily criticised for his celebrations during his country's World Cup final victory over France in Qatar back in December 2022.
Prior to kick-off, it was then claimed that a number of Lille fans had to be pulled back by stewards after making a run at Martinez.
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As reported by The Athletic’s Jacob Tanswell, who wrote on social media: “A few Lille supporters have tried to make a run at Emiliano Martinez but pulled back by stewards. He runs towards the Lille end, his eyes fixed - met with the sharpest whistles you’ll hear.”
To make matters worse for Martinez, his side fell behind with just 15 minutes on the clock.
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Lille star Yusuf Yazici arrived in the right place at the right time to sweep home to send the home crowd into pandemonium.
As things stand, the tie will go to extra time and potentially penalties.
Speaking ahead of the match, manager Emery said: “Playing against a team like Lille, they are very motivated and they are a very organised team. The result at Villa Park was not enough for us or for them.
“We have to enjoy an amazing day, an amazing match being very demanding. We are ready to play and we are aware of the difficulties we are going to face tomorrow.”
Featured Image Credit: X/@J_TanswellTopics: Emiliano Martinez, Aston Villa, Lille, Europa Conference League, Football
