Aston Villa opened their account for the new season with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Club Brugge in the Champions League, signaling a potential shift in fortunes for Unai Emery’s side. The result marks the club’s second win since their historic Europa League triumph in Istanbul this past May, ending a frustrating start to the campaign that saw them drop points in their opening Premier League fixtures.
John McGinn was the catalyst early on, firing home the opener to become Aston Villa’s all-time leading goalscorer in European competition with 12 strikes. He was supported by Emi Buendia, who scored his first goal since the Europa League final in May, and Nicolas Jackson, who capitalized on a mistake by Brugue goalkeeper Yann Sommer to net his first goal since his record-breaking £65 million transfer from Chelsea.
The visitors controlled the first half, registering 14 attempts and enjoying dominance from teenage starter George Hemmings, who became Villa’s youngest ever Champions League starter in 43 years. However, the momentum shifted after the break when Aaron Wan-Bissaka conceded a penalty for a blatant handball. Nicolo Tresoldi converted the spot-kick, sending the home crowd into a frenzy and creating nervous moments for the English visitors, including a post strike from Tresoldi later in the game.
Despite the anxiety, Villa held on to secure the three points. Manager Unai Emery emphasized the importance of resilience, noting that the team improved step-by-step after previous draws against Brighton and Hull City. He highlighted the responsibility of senior players to maintain high standards as he integrates ten new recruits into his system.
McGinn praised the squad’s grit, particularly noting the challenge for debutants Joao Gomes and Hemmings in difficult weather conditions. “It’s a new Villa and it was a big test for the new players to dig in,” McGinn told UEFA. “Club Brugge were pushing and pushing and pushing and we had to stand strong.”
Looking ahead, Villa face a crucial run including home matches against Fenerbahce and Viking in October. They return to Premier League action on Saturday against Nottingham Forest before traveling to Coventry in the Carabao Cup and hosting Tottenham.
Nicolas Jackson finally justified his price tag with that goal. About time!
McGinn is literally the club’s all-time European scoring leader now. What a milestone!
Skeptical here. Beaten a mid-table Belgian side? Let’s see how they handle Fenerbahce next.
Buendia getting back on the scoresheet is huge news. He’s been missing the target all season.
Wow, George Hemmings is only the second teenager to start in 43 years? Unbelievable prospect.
I’m just relieved we didn’t crumble after that penalty. Defense looked shaky at times.
Finally! That was a proper gritty win. Emery’s tactics are finally clicking for us.