Marco Asensio boasts an impressive record of 17 major titles won with Real Madrid and Paris Saint Germain.
However, among these accolades, only one Spanish Cup and one French Cup feature.
Asensio’s two goals have propelled Aston Villa into their first FA Cup quarter-final since 2015, setting the stage for a potential unique hat-trick opportunity at Wembley in May.
The victory was aided by the debut of semi-automated offside technology in the FA Cup.
This efficient system quickly confirmed Marcus Rashford was onside in the lead-up to Asensio’s opening goal in the 68th minute.
Youri Tielemans’ skillful pass released Rashford, who was positioned behind a Cardiff defender.
Rashford then passed to Asensio, who slotted the ball past Ethan Horvath, breaking Cardiff’s defense.
Traditionally, VAR reviews for offside can take several minutes, but with the new technology, the decision was made almost instantly. Asensio then sealed the win with a second goal 12 minutes later.
The match had a nostalgic element, with numerous connections between Aston Villa and Cardiff.
Aston Villa paid tribute to former striker Peter Whittingham before the game. A banner was displayed in memory of Whittingham, who passed away at 35 in March 2020.
Former Villa players Anwar El Ghazi and Callum Robinson led Cardiff onto the pitch. Aaron Ramsey, once of Aston Villa and Arsenal, also featured for Cardiff.
Unai Emery fielded a strong Aston Villa lineup, including Emi Martinez in goal and an attacking quartet of Bailey, Asensio, Rashford, and Watkins.
Despite Villa’s attacking strength, they initially struggled against Cardiff’s defense. Rashford and Watkins missed clear chances in the first half, while Cardiff goalkeeper Ethan Horvath made several impressive saves.
Bailey’s volley was saved by Horvath, and Rashford missed an open goal from Bailey’s cut-back. Watkins also shot straight at Horvath from close range.
Cardiff had a penalty appeal turned down when Lamare Bogarde challenged Perry Ng.
Horvath continued to deny Villa after halftime, saving from McGinn and Rashford again.
Cardiff substitute Yousef Salech forced Martinez into a save, but shortly after, Asensio scored his first goal, followed by a second to secure Aston Villa’s victory and progression to the FA Cup quarter-finals.
