Nicolas Jackson scores twice as Aston Villa defeats Manchester City

Nicolas Jackson scored both goals for Aston Villa in a 2-1 victory over Manchester City on Saturday. The result at Villa Park ended a seven-game winning streak for the visitors and stopped Enzo Maresca from becoming the first manager to win his opening seven Premier League matches with a new club. Villa, managed by Unai Emery, has now lost to City in each of the last four seasons, a streak that finally broke in Emery's favor.

The home team took the lead in the sixth minute. A heavy touch from Marc Guehi allowed Jackson to receive the ball. He cut inside Elliott Anderson and blasted a high shot past goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. City controlled possession for much of the first half but struggled to convert chances. Villa goalkeeper Zion Suzuki made key saves to deny Iliman Ndiaye, Rayan Cherki, and Abdukodir Khusanov. Ndiaye also struck the post during the early pressure.

Manchester City equalized in the 52nd minute. Erling Haaland headed in a cross from Ndiaye. The goal was his 13th in 10 appearances this season. Shortly after, Josko Gvardiol had a chance to put City ahead, but Suzuki redirected a fierce drive onto the crossbar. Villa regained the lead in the 60th minute. Ibrahim Mbaye moved behind the defense and crossed for Jackson, who fired a low shot past Donnarumma.

The win moves Villa to sixth place in the league, marking their sixth win in seven games across all competitions. It also presents a tactical opportunity for Arsenal, who can move level on points with City at the top of the table if they beat Everton at home later on Saturday. The result reflects the rebuilding efforts under Emery, who has maintained the club's competitive status despite the departure of six players who started last season's Europa League final during the summer transfer window.

New summer signings Jackson, Suzuki, Mbaye, and Johan Manzambi have provided an immediate impact for Villa. This stands in contrast to Manchester City, which has won its league matches this season despite ongoing legal issues. The 10-time English champions are appealing a guilty verdict on more than 100 charges of breaking financial rules between 2009 and 2018. Potential sanctions for these breaches include heavy fines and the possibility of relegation.

Maresca's players showed little visible sign of that off-field pressure during the match. However, two defensive errors proved decisive in the final scoreline. The defeat marks the first time City has lost a Premier League match this season. Maresca's record of seven consecutive wins in his first seven matches as a new club manager is now over. Villa Park, a venue where City have struggled recently, delivered its first result against the visitors in four years.