Aston Villa stunned by El Kaabi hat-trick as Olympiakos take control of Europa Conference League semi-final

El Kaabi's treble leaves Villa facing an uphill battle in second leg

Aston Villa were beaten 4-2 by Olympiakos in the first leg of their Europa Conference League semi-final as Ayoub El Kaabi's hat-trick stunned Steven Gerrard's side.

The Moroccan striker scored twice in the first half to give the Greek side a comfortable lead, and although Jacob Ramsey pulled one back for Villa after the break, El Kaabi completed his hat-trick just minutes later.

Philippe Coutinho gave Villa hope with a late goal, but it was not enough to prevent Olympiakos from taking a significant advantage into the second leg next week.

Villa were without several key players for the game, including Ollie Watkins, Leon Bailey, and Emi Buendia, and their absence was felt as they struggled to create chances in the first half.

El Kaabi took full advantage, scoring twice in the space of 10 minutes to put Olympiakos in control of the tie.

Villa improved after the break and Ramsey gave them hope with a well-taken goal, but El Kaabi's third goal of the night quickly extinguished any thoughts of a comeback.

Coutinho's late goal gives Villa something to hold on to, but they will need to produce a much better performance in the second leg if they are to reach the final.

The second leg will be played at Villa Park next Thursday, May 11.