Marco Asensio delivered a standout performance for Aston Villa, scoring twice to power his team past Cardiff City in the FA Cup fifth round with a 2-0 victory at Villa Park on Friday.
His third and fourth goals in Villa colours ensured Unai Emery’s men secured their place in the quarter-finals for the first time since their 2014-15 campaign, when they finished as runners-up to Arsenal.
The Premier League side dominated possession from the outset but encountered a resilient defensive effort from the visitors, with Cardiff’s goalkeeper Ethan Horvath putting on an exceptional display.
The American shot-stopper made seven impressive saves, keeping the Bluebirds in contention for much of the game.
Villa, relentless in attack, came close to breaking the deadlock on multiple occasions. Asensio narrowly missed the target in the 17th minute, while Leon Bailey forced a strong save from Horvath soon after.
Marcus Rashford, leading the line alongside Asensio, also squandered a golden opportunity inside the box.
Following a goalless first half, Villa intensified their efforts after the break. John McGinn and Rashford both saw their shots denied by the in-form Horvath, but the breakthrough finally arrived.
Continuing their impressive partnership, Rashford and Asensio combined once again—just as they did in Villa’s 2-1 league victory over Chelsea. Rashford delivered a pinpoint cross into the area, which Asensio expertly guided into the net to put Villa ahead.
With 10 minutes left, the Spanish midfielder sealed the victory with his second goal of the night.
After receiving a well-placed pass from Bailey, Asensio composed himself before curling a precise shot into the bottom right-hand corner.
His tally now stands at four goals since joining Villa on loan from Paris Saint-Germain in January.
Rashford, who made the switch from Manchester United in pursuit of a fresh challenge, has quickly established himself as a key creative force under Emery.
Since his Villa debut on 9 February, he has created more chances in all competitions (13) than any other Premier League player. Notably, all three of his assists for the club have been converted by Asensio.
Against Cardiff, Rashford also equalled his personal record for most chances created in a single match (six), a feat he last achieved in January 2024 against Wigan Athletic while still at United.
Villa’s reward for their triumph is a spot in the FA Cup quarter-finals, while they now shift their focus to European competition, with a crucial Champions League clash against Club Brugge looming on Tuesday.
