Former Ghana striker Anthony Yeboah in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa, has stated that he expects a closely contested UEFA Europa League final between SC Freiburg and Aston Villa, believing both sides have shown enough quality to challenge for the trophy.
The former Eintracht Frankfurt forward shared his thoughts in an interview with Footy-Africa ahead of Wednesday’s final at Besiktas Park in Istanbul.
Istanbul awaits. pic.twitter.com/yU9tf6fiU2
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) May 17, 2026
Aston Villa enter the match as favourites after an impressive European campaign, but Yeboah said Freiburg have also earned their place in the final through strong performances.
“People are talking more about Aston Villa because of the Premier League and the quality they have shown this season, but Freiburg are also a very dangerous team,” Yeboah told Footy-Africa.
“They play with confidence, they score goals, and they fight until the end. Finals are not won on paper.”
The former Leeds United and Frankfurt striker said Freiburg’s recent displays against top opposition prove they can compete on the big stage.
“I watched them against Braga in the semifinals, and you can see they have belief in themselves,” he said. “Aston Villa have quality players and experience too, but Freiburg should not fear them. In a final, small moments decide everything.”
Yeboah also predicted an entertaining contest, with both teams showing attacking quality in recent matches.
“I expect an open game because both teams like to attack,” he added. “If Freiburg defend well and take their chances, they can win this trophy.”
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Yeboah remains a respected figure in German football after his successful spell with Eintracht Frankfurt, where he won two Bundesliga golden boots.
He was also in Seville in 2022 when Frankfurt defeated Rangers on penalties to lift the Europa League trophy.
