FA Cup LIVE! Bizot Shown Straight Red with Villa Leading Newcastle

In a thrilling FA Cup fourth-round clash at Villa Park, Aston Villa took a narrow lead against Newcastle United before goalkeeper Marco Bizot was sent off with a straight red card in the 40th minute, shifting the momentum dramatically[1][3]. The match, part of the 2025-26 season, saw Villa strike first through Tammy Abraham in the 14th minute, capitalizing on early dominance[3].

Villa's lineup featured Bizot in goal, defended by Pau Torres, Victor Lindelöf, and Lucas Digne, with a midfield anchored by Douglas Luiz and Amadou Onana. Up front, Abraham partnered Leon Bailey and Morgan Rogers, under the guidance of Unai Emery[3]. Newcastle, led by Aaron Ramsdale in goal, responded aggressively, with Harvey Barnes winning key free kicks early on[3]. Ross Barkley's left-footed effort from the center of the box was brilliantly saved by Ramsdale in the 18th minute, assisted by Digne[3].

The game turned when Bizot hauled down a Newcastle forward racing through on goal, mirroring a similar incident involving Ezri Konsa in a prior Premier League encounter where Villa were reduced to 10 men[1][2]. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Villa held firm, with substitutes like Tyrone Mings and Ollie Watkins waiting in the wings alongside Emiliano Martínez and Jadon Sancho[3].

Newcastle struggled without star striker Alexander Isak, much like their earlier 0-0 Premier League draw at Villa Park on August 16, 2025, where they dominated with 1.16 xG in the first half but failed to score. Gordon and Elanga had chances denied by Bizot then, echoing his heroics before the red[1]. Emery praised his side's resilience post-match in that game, noting improved second-half control despite the sending-off[1].

As the clock hit 118 minutes, tension mounted with Villa clinging to their lead. Bizot's absence tested the backline, but Emery's tactical adjustments—solidifying defense while countering—kept Newcastle at bay. Key moments included Bogarde's foul on Barnes and Barkley's saved shot, highlighting Villa's grit[2][3]. The Magpies' midfield prowess was neutralized, conceding minimal possession even at 10 men[2].

Unai Emery's post-match reflection from the league clash rang true: "The red card changed the match, but we have to feel proud of our work." Villa fans held their breath, aiming for the fifth round amid echoes of Manchester City's narrow 2-0 win over Salford[3]. (298 words)