On a thrilling Wednesday evening, Prince William showcased a range of emotions while cheering for his beloved Aston Villa as they faced off against Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
The Prince of Wales, a dedicated supporter of the Birmingham-based Premier League club, was among the ecstatic fans for this significant match—their first home game in Europe’s elite competition in 41 years.
Dressed in a navy jacket and sporting his favorite beard, William went from looking tense to exuberantly raising his arms in cheer at Villa Park, the stadium located in the UK’s vibrant second city.
As the game unfolded, the royal was seen clapping and cheering, particularly when home fans thought they had scored through Pau Torres, only to have the goal disallowed for offside.
A Royal Encounter
Before the match kicked off, William had the honor of meeting members of Aston Villa’s 1982 European Cup-winning team, who famously defeated Bayern 1-0 in the final.
His enthusiasm was evident on the Prince and Princess of Wales’s X social media account, which shared a post saying, “42 years on, our 1982 European Cup winning legends are here on a historic night for @AVFCOfficial.
Ready for the first game on home turf in this year’s European adventure… £UTV (Up the Villa).”
Villa had previously opened their European campaign with a decisive 3-0 victory against Swiss side Young Boys.
This match marked a significant return to the top tier of European competition since their quarter-final loss to Juventus in 1983.
Honoring Football Legends
Earlier that day, William had also attended an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle, where he honored football stars, including former Scotland player Ally McCoist.
During their chat, they discussed the upcoming Aston Villa match.
McCoist remarked, “I’m obviously well aware that the prince is an Aston Villa fan—there’s a very, very big game tonight, which I think he’s going to.”
Another honoree, former England international Karen Carney, shared some playful banter with William about their differing team loyalties, with her being a Birmingham City supporter.
“To be brutally honest, a lot of people know I’m a Birmingham City fan, and there’s a big game at Aston Villa tonight,” she quipped.
“William was really gracious; it was cool to chat about football.”
A Heartwarming Gesture
In a touching moment that showcased the royal couple’s compassion, Prince William and Princess Kate recently invited a young aspiring photographer, Liz Hatton, to Windsor Castle.
Liz, a 16-year-old fighting an aggressive form of cancer, had the chance to capture the moments during the investiture ceremony.
During their meeting, the Princess of Wales embraced Liz, reflecting the kindness and support that have characterized the couple’s public interactions.
Dressed in a chic burgundy trouser suit, Kate radiated warmth as she connected with Liz, who had recently completed her own course of preventative chemotherapy.
The couple later shared their appreciation on social media, calling Liz a “talented young photographer whose creativity and strength has inspired us both.”
Liz’s Journey
Liz, who has been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive tumor, expressed her joy about the royal family’s recognition of her talent.
After being invited by William through the London Air Ambulance Charity, she had a chance to not only showcase her photography but also share her journey with the royal couple.
Her mother, Vicky, revealed the gravity of Liz’s diagnosis, stating that doctors have given her between six months and three years to live.
Despite this, Liz has embraced her passion for photography and is actively pursuing a list of experiences she wishes to capture.
“If I only have around three years left to live, what’s the point in A-levels?” she said, showing remarkable resilience in the face of adversity.
Continuing the Royal Duties
In addition to their heartfelt encounters, the Princess has been gradually returning to royal duties following her own health challenges.
She attended various meetings and performances, including a recent ballet at Sadler’s Wells Theatre, where she celebrated the power of creativity.
Kate has also reflected on how her health struggles have brought both her and William closer to appreciating the simple joys of life.
As she plans to return to her royal responsibilities, she remains focused on her recovery, stating, “Although I have finished chemotherapy, my path to healing and full recovery is long, and I must continue to take each day as it comes.”
This blend of royal duties, heartfelt gestures, and football fandom has made for an emotional yet uplifting time for the Prince and Princess of Wales, illustrating their commitment to their roles and the people they inspire.