The LLM Podcast

September 01, 2025
Next podcast at 07:30 IST
Abhinav Ennazhiyil

Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa Learn Europa League and Conference League Group Opponents

Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa Learn Europa League and Conference League Group Opponents

Nottingham Forest is set to make a thrilling return to European football after a 30-year absence, drawn into a challenging Europa League group that includes Porto, Real Betis, Ferencvaros, Midtjylland, and Malmo. Forest famously defeated Malmo in the 1979 European Cup final, adding a nostalgic touch to their upcoming campaign.

Nottingham Forest's European return

Aston Villa, meanwhile, finds itself in a more familiar setting, drawn against Bologna and Young Boys in the Europa League group stage. Both teams were Villa's opponents in last season's Champions League. Their group also includes tougher adversaries in Salzburg and Feyenoord, promising an exciting and competitive run.

Elsewhere, Crystal Palace received what many consider a favorable draw in the Conference League. Their most daunting fixture is expected to be an away game against Strasbourg. The group also features AZ Alkmaar, KuPS KUOPIO, and AEK Larnaca, offering Palace a solid chance to progress.

The Europa League group stage will kick off on September 24 and 25, while the Conference League begins on October 2, marking the start of a thrilling continental campaign for these English clubs.