Manchester City beaten by Aston Villa as Nicolas Jackson scores twice

Manchester City suffered their first defeat of the current Premier League season as Aston Villa won 2-1 at Villa Park in the eighth round of the Champions League.

Nicolas Jackson scored both of Aston Villa’s goals, while Erling Haaland replied for Manchester City. The result extended Aston Villa’s recent record against Manchester City, with Villa now having won five of their past seven league meetings.

Manchester City remain top of the table on 21 points, three points clear of second-placed Arsenal, who are due to play Everton shortly. Aston Villa moved up to sixth place with 11 points.

Manchester City began with a front three of returning striker Erling Haaland, Jeremy Doku and Eliman Ndiaye.

Aston Villa made the stronger start and took the lead early when Jackson capitalised on an error by Marc Guehi before firing a powerful shot into the net.

Manchester City came close to an equaliser in the 28th minute when Eliman Ndiaye’s low effort struck the post.

The visitors eventually drew level after the interval. Haaland headed in from Eliman Ndiaye’s cross to bring Manchester City back into the match.

Four minutes later, Josko Gvardiol almost put Manchester City ahead, but his powerful effort was saved by Aston Villa goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.

Against the run of play, Aston Villa restored their lead in the 61st minute. Jackson found space inside the penalty area and struck again, with Manchester City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma unable to keep the shot out.

Manchester City were unable to turn their possession and chances into further goals, allowing the hosts to secure the victory.

The defeat leaves Manchester City with their first loss in the Premier League this season, although they remain at the top of the standings. Arsenal can reduce the gap to three points when they face Everton.

Manchester City’s next match will be against Brighton in the ninth round on Saturday, 31 October.