Aston Villa defeated Viking FK 3-1 at Villa Park in the UEFA Champions League league phase.

The match took place on 21 October 2026 at Villa Park, Birmingham, as part of the UEFA Champions League league phase. Both sides entered the game looking to claim three points, with the home crowd expecting a strong showing from the hosts.

How it unfolded

The opening half-hour saw Aston Villa take the initiative. In the 23rd minute Ross Barkley headed home from close range after Ibrahim Mbaye delivered a cross from a corner, giving Villa an early lead. The momentum continued to build for the home side, and just before the half-hour mark, Emiliano Buendía converted a penalty in the 37th minute, slotting the ball to the bottom right corner and extending the lead to 2-0.

The second half began with Villa still dominant. In the 62nd minute, Viking defender Henrik Heggheim inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, resulting in an own-goal that pushed the score to 3-0 in favour of Aston Villa.

Viking FK fought back late in the game. In the 84th minute, Peter Christiansen found the back of the net with a left-footed shot from the centre of the box, assisted by Kristoffer Askildsen. The goal was confirmed after a VAR review, reducing the deficit to 3-1 but leaving Villa comfortably ahead until the final whistle.

Standout performers

Ross Barkley provided the opening strike, his header showcasing his aerial ability and timing. Ibrahim Mbaye’s corner delivery set up that goal, underlining his importance in set-piece situations. Emiliano Buendía’s composure from the penalty spot added a clinical finish to Villa’s tally. On the Viking side, Peter Christiansen’s late goal, assisted by Kristoffer Askildsen, demonstrated resilience and technical skill despite the overall result.

Match facts

  • Final score: Aston Villa 3-1 Viking FK
  • Scorers: Ross Barkley (23'), Emiliano Buendía (penalty, 37'), Henrik Heggheim (own goal, 62'), Peter Christiansen (84')
  • Assists: Ibrahim Mbaye (23'), Kristoffer Askildsen (84')
  • Bookings: None
  • Venue: Villa Park, Birmingham

What it means

The three-point win gives Aston Villa a full three points from the league phase fixture, strengthening their position in the competition, while Viking FK return home with a single point from the encounter.