Watch: Europa League anthem played in place of Champions League music, leaves players embarrassed

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Apr 16, 2025, 12:48 IST

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Aston Villa's Champions League return was marked by an embarrassing pre-match blunder as the Europa League anthem played instead of the Champions League theme. Despite the initial confusion and a 2-0 deficit against Paris Saint-Germain, Villa rallied to win 3-2. However, PSG advanced to the semifinals 5-4 on aggregate, overshadowing Villa's spirited comeback in front of Prince William.

Watch: Europa League anthem played in place of Champions League music, leaves players embarrassed

PSG's head coach Luis Enrique reacts during the Champions League quarterfinal second leg soccer match between Aston Villa and Paris Saint-Germain

NEW DELHI: A mix-up at Villa Park saw the Europa League anthem mistakenly played instead of the Champions League music before Aston Villa's quarterfinal second leg against Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday, causing confusion among players and spectators, including Prince William in attendance.
Villa defender Ezri Konsa was seen gesturing in dismay and discussing the error with teammate Youri Tielemans as the wrong anthem echoed through the stadium.

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The iconic Champions League anthem was eventually played about a minute later, just as players were preparing for kickoff.

This season marks Aston Villa's return to Europe's premier club competition, their first appearance since 1982-83 when they competed as European Cup champions.
The pre-match musical mishap was followed by early setbacks on the field, with PSG taking a 2-0 lead by the 27th minute through goals from fullbacks Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes.
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Despite Villa mounting an impressive comeback to win the match 3-2, PSG advanced to the semifinals with a 5-4 aggregate victory over the two legs.
The presence of Prince William, heir to the British throne and well-known Villa supporter, added significance to the occasion despite the pre-match confusion.

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TOI Sports Desk

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