Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba described the moment as one of pure pride after announcing himself on the European stage with a decisive late goal that completed Aston Villa’s dramatic 3–2 comeback victory over Red Bull Salzburg.
On a pulsating night at Villa Park, the teenager delivered the defining touch in the 87th minute, converting a low cross from fellow Academy graduate Kadan Young to spark celebrations around the Holte End.
Born in England and of Nigerian descent, Jimoh-Aloba’s breakthrough carried personal significance as well as sporting weight.
Making his European debut at just 19, the forward produced his first senior goal in front of his family, with his mother watching from the stands. It was a landmark moment in a young career shaped by patience, persistence and steady progression through Villa’s youth ranks.
The goal marked Jimoh-Aloba’s sixth appearance for the first team since making his senior debut in September 2024, and it could hardly have arrived at a more fitting time.
“It’s a proud moment for me on my European debut,” he said after the match, sharing celebrations with midfielder Amadou Onana. “It’s really nice to make my family proud because of all the hard work. I’ve had a lot of lows this season and a lot of highs, but this is top.”
Villa’s route to victory was anything but straightforward. The hosts found themselves two goals behind after strikes from Karim Konate and Moussa Yeo put Salzburg firmly in control. However, Unai Emery’s side responded with renewed urgency and belief, refusing to let the contest slip away.
Morgan Rogers pulled one back in the 64th minute to ignite the comeback before Tyrone Mings rose highest to head home the equaliser, sending Villa Park into raptures. The momentum swung decisively in Villa’s favour, setting the stage for Jimoh-Aloba’s late intervention.
Mings, captaining the side on the night, was quick to praise the teenager’s attitude and application.
“It’s a lovely moment for Jama,” he said. “We see the hard work he puts in every day. The manager is demanding of him, as are the rest of us, because we know his potential. Moments like this make it worthwhile.”
Jimoh-Aloba’s winner not only capped a memorable personal milestone but also secured Villa a second-place finish in the UEFA Europa League standings, underlining a night when youthful promise and collective resilience combined to powerful effect.
