Forty-two years on from Withe getting the only goal against Bayern Munich in the European Cup final, he watched from the stands of Villa Park as Duran did likewise as the hosts announced their return to Europe's elite club competition in stunning fashion. Goalkeeper Martinez then repelled the Bavarian giants with two late stunning saves, just as Spink had frustrated them on that famous night in Rotterdam, to preserve the victory. This one might not have delivered a trophy like 1982.
Yet it was another night which will live forever in the memory of those present, from Withe and his fellow club legends to Prince William. Duran’s winner 11 minutes from time inflicted Bayern’s first Champions League group stage defeat in 42 matches. Just as on that night, a 3-0 loss to Paris St Germain, Unai Emery stood in the opposite dugout.
The Spaniard is clearly a man for the big occasion. So too, increasingly, is Duran. This was his sixth goal of the season, four of which have been match-winners.
The latest, a sumptuous lob over a stranded Manuel Neuer from 25 yards out, guaranteed his place in Villa folklore. Bayern, who dominated possession just as they did in Rotterdam, could find no way through. Martinez denied Serge Gnabry from point-blank range before then producing a stunning save to keep out Harry Kane’s header at the death.
Bayern had scored 30 goals in their first seven matches of the season but Emery’s men defended superbly throughout. Villa have now won their opening two.