Aston Villa vs Viking prediction 21.10.2026 | Champions League

Aston Villa suffered big changes over the summer and, as expected, had a slower start to the season. However, as the season progresses, they are only looking better and better. Right now, they are on a five-game unbeaten run (four wins), and come to the game with very good momentum. In the Champions League, the Villans beat a very good Club Brugge squad 3:2 and then really impressed with a 6:0 win over Fenerbahce. With a win here, they could, in theory, secure the next phase of the competition, since last season nine points were enough. 

Johan Manzambi and Aaron Wan-Bissaka suffered injuries in the previous game and had to leave the field. For now, there is no confirmation that they will miss the game, but if they do, it will be a massive downgrade. Moreover, Amadou Onana and Matteo Ruggeri should remain sidelined with injuries, while Ian Maatsen and George Hemmings are listed as doubtful. 

Viking had an amazing season behind them, winning the Norwegian title for the first time since 1991! This season, they continued to play great in domestic competition and are currently level on points with 1st-placed Bodo/Glimt. In the Champions League, they won only one point against Stuttgart and Bayern Munich, but did not disappoint considering they were massive underdogs in both matches. They are once again a big underdog, but maybe that draw against Bayern Munich in the previous CL game could give them a morale boost, and they could grab their first Champions League win.

After a 3:3 draw with Bayern Munich, coach Bjarte Lunde Aarsheim spoke to the media. He said they executed their game plan very well before the break. However, they weren't focused enough and allowed three quick goals. "What impressed me was the mentality and hunger of our players. We were also driven forward by the fans. We didn't want to lose and were determined to get the point," the coach added.

When it comes to injuries, the team should have no new ones, but Nicholas D'Agostino, Martin Roseth, Sondre Bjorshol, Veton Berisha, and Anders Baertelsen should remain sidelined.