Aston Villa's Triumph: A Memento of European Glory and the Return to the Champions League

41 years ago, Aston Villa achieved one of the biggest upsets in European football. On May 26, 1982, they defeated Bayern Munich in the final of the European Cup. Despite goalkeeper Jimmy Rimmer being substituted due to injury after only ten minutes, backup keeper Nigel Spink bravely defended the goal. The decisive moment came in the 67th minute when Tony Morley initiated a counterattack and Peter Withe scored to make it 1-0. With that, they secured the prestigious title. Manager Tony Barton, who had been in the role for just 25 matches, said after the historic victory, "We have won for Aston Villa, Birmingham, England, and Great Britain." This week, Aston Villa returns to the newly named Champions League for the first time since the 1982/83 season. Their first group stage match is against Young Boys from Switzerland, followed by a clash with old rivals Bayern Munich. Villa's return is emotionally charged by the recent death of former striker Gary Shaw, who passed away at the age of 63. Shaw was instrumental in winning the European Cup, scoring three goals on the way to the final. Fans who were present in Rotterdam still vividly remember the most glorious night in their club’s history. One supporter recounts how he made it into the locker room and later returned to Amsterdam with the players. Another recalls sacrificing his old exam results to watch the game, while yet another had to endure a discussion with his professor due to his bold adventure in Rotterdam. Today, as they face their resurgence onto the biggest stage of European football, the memories of 1982 serve as a source of inspiration and pride for Aston Villa’s loyal supporters.