New Delhi, March 13 – Ollie Watkins scored the winning goal for Aston Villa against Lille, while Porto and Midtjylland also secured a one-goal advantage in the first legs of the UEFA Europa League round of 16.
An Ollie Watkins header ensured Aston Villa would return to Villa Park with the lead after the first leg of their UEFA Europa League Round of 16 match against LOSC Lille.
The striker scored in the 61st minute to decide a tight match at Stade Pierre-Mauroy.
Emi Martínez made several impressive saves, helping Villa achieve their first victory in France after seven attempts.
Unai Emery also reached his 100th win as Aston Villa's manager, becoming the fastest manager to achieve this milestone. His side will start the second leg with a lead after seven days.
Meanwhile, two-time winners Porto secured a narrow victory over Stuttgart with two goals in the first half.
William Gomes' shot hit the woodwork in the opening period, but Terem Moffi and Rodrigo Mora's efforts almost secured the win for the hosts.
However, Die Roten increased the pressure and narrowed the gap just before halftime with Deniz Undav's half-volley.
Elsewhere, Midtjylland stunned Nottingham Forest for the second time, securing a first-leg lead after Guesung Cho's header in the 80th minute.
The Danish side remained strong despite the heavy rain and Forest's relentless attacks. Long-range shots from Elliot Anderson and Ola Aina were well saved by Elias Rafn Olafsson, who helped Midtjylland record their eighth clean sheet in their last 12 European matches.