FA CUP: Rashford sends message to Amorim with stunning brace as Villa reach semifinals

Ifeanyi Ufomadu 18:02 - 30 March 2025

Marcus Rashford scored twice for Aston Villa against Preston (Credit: Imago)

Marcus Rashford scored his first goals for Aston Villa to defeat Preston 3-0 and reach the FA Cup semifinals at Wembley.

Rashford has finally arrived, and he did it in style, scoring a stunning brace to help Aston Villa reach the FA Cup semifinals.

After being frozen out at Manchester United by Ruben Amorim, Rashford was sent on loan to Villa, and the 27-year-old has seized the opportunity with both hands.

Marcus Rashford's game by numbers vs. Preston:

33 touches
14/15 passes completed
8 touches in opp. box
5 shots
4 shots on target
3 chances created
2 big chances created
2 goals

His first Villa goals. ⚽️⚽️ pic.twitter.com/g5qeSLRSXf
— Squawka (@Squawka) March 30, 2025

The striker tapped home Lucas Digne’s cross for the opener at Deepdale in the 58th minute and then converted a penalty in the 63rd after Morgan Rogers was fouled. Jacob Ramsey wrapped up a comfortable victory for Villa.

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The Villans have not won a trophy in almost 30 years and now have an excellent chance to do so in the FA Cup, which would mark another high point in Unai Emery's reign.

Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest advanced on Saturday, while Manchester City or Bournemouth will join them in the final four.

Rashford's move to Villa has seen him regain his England place, and now, with the goals flowing, his career could be reignited for good.