Maccabi Tel Aviv manager Zarko Dabetic offered no excuses after his team's comprehensive 4-0 defeat to Aston Villa in the UEFA Conference League, delivering a brutally honest assessment of the gulf in class between the two sides.
The Serbian coach watched helplessly as Ollie Watkins, Leon Bailey, and a Douglas Luiz brace sealed a dominant victory for Unai Emery's men at Villa Park, leaving the Israeli champions with a mountain to climb in the second leg.
'They Play in a Different Championship'
Dabetic didn't mince words in his post-match analysis, stating: "We played against an extraordinary team, a team that plays in a different championship." His admiration for Villa's quality was palpable as he acknowledged the sheer dominance of the Premier League side.
"They have exceptional players in every position," Dabetic continued. "We tried to compete, but the difference was evident from the first minute. When you face a team of this calibre, you understand why the Premier League is considered the strongest in the world."
Emery's Tactical Masterclass
The Maccabi boss reserved special praise for Villa manager Unai Emery, recognising the Spanish tactician's impact since taking charge at the Birmingham club. "Emery has built something special here," Dabetic noted. "His team is organised, intense, and plays with a clear identity. We couldn't find answers to their pressing and movement."
Despite the heavy defeat, Dabetic remained pragmatic about his team's European campaign, emphasising that the experience against elite opposition would prove valuable for his players' development.
What This Means for the Return Leg
With the second leg in Israel looming, Dabetic acknowledged the near-impossible task ahead but promised his team would show more fight in front of their home supporters.
"The tie is practically decided," he admitted. "But we owe it to our fans to put on a better showing. We'll analyse this match, learn from our mistakes, and try to restore some pride."
The comprehensive victory strengthens Aston Villa's position as one of the favourites to lift the Conference League trophy, while Maccabi Tel Aviv face an uphill battle to salvage their European campaign.
