Marcus Rashford scored his first two goals for Aston Villa, powering Unai Emery’s side to a 3-0 FA Cup quarterfinal victory at Preston North End.
The Manchester United loanee broke his Villa duck in spectacular fashion, scoring twice in five minutes to book the club’s first semifinal appearance since their 2015 final run.
The breakthrough came in the 61st minute when Rashford expertly finished Lucas Digne’s cutback, before converting a penalty after Andrew Hughes’ foul on Morgan Rogers. Jacob Ramsey capped the victory with a sublime 25-yard strike, confirming Villa’s dominance after a stubborn first-half resistance from their Championship hosts.
“This is exactly why we brought Marcus in,” said Emery. “His clinical edge in big moments makes the difference.” The England international’s brace marked his first goals since December, offering a timely reminder of his quality after falling down the pecking order at Old Trafford.
Villa’s progression continues their impressive cup form this season, with Emery’s men now eyeing a potential double as they remain in contention for Champions League qualification.
For Preston, their first quarterfinal appearance in 58 years ultimately ended in disappointment, though Ryan Lowe’s side can take pride in holding their Premier League opponents scoreless for an hour at a raucous Deepdale.
The victory sets up a Wembley semifinal clash against either Chelsea or Leicester City, with Villa now serious contenders to lift their first FA Cup since 1957. Rashford’s immediate impact suggests the loan move could rejuvenate both player and club as they chase silverware on multiple fronts.
