Ross Barkley’s goal in a 3-2 win over RB Leipzig sent Aston Villa third in the Champions League.
The Villains are now just one win away from automatic qualification.
The game looked destined to be a draw but a bit of luck for Barkley saw Aston Villa head home with three points. His effort took a wild deflection in the 85th minute and wrong-footed Peter Gulasci.
Embed from Getty ImagesUnai Emery’s side took the lead inside three minutes through John McGinn.
However, Lois Openda capitalised on a defensive error from Diego Carlos and Emiliano Martinez to equalise before the break.
Watkins had a quiet half overall and was axed at half-time. Jhon Duran replaced him and made an instant impact.
The Colombian scored with an audacious lob from 25 yards out to net his second Champions League goal of the season.
However, Leipzig equalised again. This time moments after Duran scored what he thought was his brace. Although the goal was quickly ruled out for an offside in the build up.
Embed from Getty ImagesLeipzig caught Villa napping for a second time and Openda was heavily involved again.
Openda lofted a cross to the back post where Christoph Baumgartner found the top left corner with a side-footed volley.
Leipzig’s efforts weren’t enough though and they were eliminated from the competition.
Villa could progress automatically secure a top eight finish in their next match against Monaco.
They will be light at the back as Diego Carlos will miss the game due to suspension after he was shown a yellow card.
Embed from Getty ImagesWritten by Isabelle Newnham
INMR FOOTBALL 
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