Monaco 1 Aston Villa 0: Unai Emery’s side dealt blow in race for Champions League top eight in front of Prince William

ASTON VILLA'S hopes of securing a top-eight spot in the Champions League took a dent with defeat in Monaco.

Wilfried Singo grabbed the only goal of the game with just eight minutes on the clock.

Emi Buendia of Aston Villa reacting during a soccer match. — Aston Villa suffered a slip-up in their Champions League campaignCredit: Getty

Prince William watching a soccer match with his children and other spectators. — Prince William was in attendance at MonacoCredit: EPA

Wilfried Singo scoring a goal during a soccer match. — Wilfried Singo headed in from close range to break the deadlock on eight minutesCredit: AP

Emi Martinez had made a flying initial save but could do nothing as Singo headed in the rebound from close range.

And it was Monaco who came closer to finding a second goal - rather than Villa grabbing an equaliser - with Takumi Minamino squandering a great chance.

So for Villa and their fans - including future king Prince William - head back to the Midlands knowing their hopes of a top-eight finish and automatic qualification for the last 16 may well be out of their hands when they host Celtic on the final matchday next Wednesday.

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