ISTANBUL (Interstat) — Jadon Sancho’s first-half goal was enough for Aston Villa to secure a 1-0 victory over Fenerbahce SK in Europa League group stage play Thursday at Ülker Stadyumu.

The decisive moment came in the 25th minute when Sancho, a second-half substitute, found the net. The assist was credited to defender Mert Müldür. The match was a physical affair, with nine yellow cards issued by the referee.

The result defied the pregame projection from Interstat, whose simulator had forecast a 1-1 draw. Aston Villa began its European campaign with a win, while Fenerbahce started with a loss.