Villa punished an early defensive mistake
Ruben Dias played the ball towards Marc Guehi in the sixth minute, but the defender lost control. John McGinn collected it and found Jackson, who beat Anderson before finishing the move. Villa had created the goal through pressure and a quick pass rather than a long spell of possession.
City responded and Zion Suzuki saved from Iliman Ndiaye in the 14th minute. The visitors kept the ball for long periods, but Villa protected central space and asked them to create from wider positions. The hosts reached half-time with their lead intact.
Haaland equalised before Jackson struck again
Enzo Maresca made two changes at half-time and City increased the pressure. Haaland scored his ninth league goal of the season in the 52nd minute. Villa did not retreat. Jackson started the counterattack for the second goal, Ibrahim Mbaye supplied the final pass and Jackson’s shot travelled under Gianluigi Donnarumma in the 60th minute.
Donnarumma’s error was decisive because City had regained control only eight minutes earlier. Villa scored with both of their shots on target. The hosts did not create the greater number of chances, but they finished the two opportunities that reached the goalkeeper.
| Statistic | Aston Villa | Manchester City |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 36.2% | 63.8% |
| Shots | 8 | 15 |
| Shots on target | 2 | 7 |
| Expected goals | 0.61 | 1.56 |
Late defending secured a fourth straight home win over City
Suzuki saved from Josko Gvardiol, and Ian Maatsen cleared the ball from the line in the 89th minute. City had 63.8 per cent possession, 15 shots and seven on target. Villa had 36.2 per cent possession, eight attempts and two on target. The expected-goals figures were 0.61 to 1.56.
Villa extended their unbeaten run to seven matches and recorded a fourth consecutive home league win over City. Jackson became the first player since 2012 to score twice against a Premier League leader in this fixture context. City’s run of seven wins ended, leaving them level with Arsenal on 21 points. Villa won through precise finishing, Suzuki’s saves and disciplined work around their penalty area.