Maccabi Tel Aviv's manager Zarko Lazetic described the unusual circumstances his team faced ahead of their Europa League match against Aston Villa, arriving at Villa Park five hours early due to heightened security measures. The match, which Villa won 2-0, was marked by significant political tension, with Maccabi supporters banned and a large police presence deployed in response to planned protests. Six arrests were made before kick-off, including some for racially aggravated offences. Lazetic expressed frustration at the disruption, while Villa manager Unai Emery acknowledged the difficulties but was satisfied with his team's result.