Overview

• Aston Villa defeated Cardiff City 2-0 to advance to the FA Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 2015, thanks to two goals from Marco Asensio.
• Asensio, on loan from Paris Saint-Germain, has now scored four goals in his last six games, solidifying his impact since joining the team in January.
• Marcus Rashford, also on loan, assisted Asensio's first goal and created multiple chances, though he is still seeking his first goal for Villa.
• Cardiff's goalkeeper Ethan Horvath delivered a standout performance, keeping Villa at bay for much of the game with several crucial saves.
• Unai Emery's attacking lineup, featuring Rashford, Asensio, Leon Bailey, and Ollie Watkins, demonstrated promise as Villa balances FA Cup ambitions with upcoming European fixtures.