Yahoo News Aston Villa told 'build the statue' after thrilling Europa Conference League victory
Aston Villa reached a first European semi-final for the first time since 1982 in the most dramatic of styles against Lille.
Having struggled for much of the night Unai Emery’s men reached the last four – and a two-legged tie with either Fenerbahce or Olympiacos – after a 2-1 reverse in normal time earned them extra time and a penalty shoot out.
Indeed Villa looked to be heading out in 90 minutes when Yusuf Yazici put the hosts on level terms after quarter of an hour. Villa lived dangerously for long periods and it was a second half goal from a set-piece for Lille captain Benjamin André that put the Ligue 1 outfit 2-0 up.
Matty Cash capitalised on a goalkeeper error to level the tie with three minutes to go and after a nervy extra time Villa won 4-3 on penalties, with Emiliano Martinez producing a save for the decisive spot kick.
READ MORE: Lille v Villa LIVE from Stade Pierre Mauroy
READ MORE: Villa dealt massive injury worry vs Lille with forced Nicolo Zaniolo decision
This is what they were saying on social media - and one man's name was on everyone's lips
@Todz84: Emi martinez you are an absolute beauty of a human... Up the European villa
@PjSteggles: Best keeper in the world second to none
@Pajosmashup: best keeper in the world
@david_lumb1: best goalkeeper in the world (and arguably the worst referee)
@kaybeetweetz: Emi Martinez the worlds number 1
@FlicJohnsonGolf: EMIIIIIII MARTINEZ I’m so glad he plays for my team
@RH_AVFC: @emimartinezz1 needs a statue!
@davidpigman: The only goalkeeper that can get 2 yellow cards and be the hero of the night
@saigopal88: Emi masterclass yet again
@tomronan90: Dibu! Build the statue now! He's OUR world number 1!
