Unai Emery Furious as Elliot Anderson Avoids Red Card in Aston Villas Loss
Chris Woods penalty in the second half, given after a needless handball by Lucas Digne, secured a narrow win for Forest at the City Ground.
However, Villa manager Emery was outraged by the decision to let Forest midfielder Anderson off without a red card following his reckless challenge on Ollie Watkins during the first half.
"The VAR is truly awful. It was obviously a red card offence, and I cannot fathom why the VAR did not alert the referee, as it was blatantly evident. This is a major, major error. The VAR bears the blame," Emery commented.
"The referee did an outstanding job overall, scoring a perfect 10, and I valued his control of the game across the full 90 minutes.
"Yet when I reviewed the incident, it was shocking. Tremendously so. That tackle risked a serious ankle injury. Where is the VAR? It falls on you to act, especially among professionals.
"Everyone could see it plainly. Such a challenge endangers an ankle. This is unjust."
Emery maintained that Villa remains capable of recovering and advancing to their first European final since 1982, adding: "Following their goal, the key was to stay composed and stick to our strategy.
"The tie is far from over, with the return fixture next week. We need to regroup."
As Emery vented his frustration, Vitor Pereira commended the resilient performance from his Forest side.
Forest heads to Villa Park for the return leg on May 7, hoping to qualify for their first major European final since their 1980 European Cup triumph.
"We rotated the squad yet preserved the determination. The drive to secure victories. Our fans were brilliant, providing immense support. The upcoming match will be a tough fight," said Forest manager Pereira.
Forest, twice European Cup winners during Brian Cloughs era, had not reached a European semi final since that iconic managers UEFA Cup run to the last four in 198384.
"Leading this club is a privilege for me, aiming to support these players and witness the joy among the supporters. Being part of the Nottingham community, honouring a legendary figure in everyones minds. I feel immense pride in my team," remarked Pereira, the fourth boss at Forest amid a challenging campaign.
Having earned only one point from their two Premier League clashes with Villa this term, Pereira noted his insights into neutralising Emerys squad.
"I am pleased we stuck to our style, applying high pressure, but dropping into a compact shape when they pushed forward. In terms of tactics, we executed as required," he explained.
"Villas switches in play pose a real threat, particularly when they advance the ball towards our backline, creating significant issues."