Jackson brace ends Manchester City’s unbeaten Premier League start

Nicolas Jackson scored twice as Aston Villa handed Manchester City their first Premier League defeat of the season, ending the visitors’ perfect start after seven consecutive victories.

The striker struck once in each half to secure a 2-1 win for Unai Emery’s side, extending Villa’s impressive recent record against City and delivering their first home league victory of the campaign.

Despite the defeat, City remain three points clear at the top of the table, while Villa moved into the top half after an important result against the defending contenders.

Jackson punishes City’s defensive errors

Villa took the lead when captain John McGinn capitalised on a poor touch from City defender Marc Guehi to release Jackson.

The forward turned inside Elliot Anderson before firing a powerful finish high past goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma to put the hosts ahead.

City responded by increasing the pressure, with Iliman Ndiaye coming close to equalising when his effort struck the post.

The visitors eventually restored parity early in the second half through Erling Haaland, who rose above the Villa defence to head home Ndiaye’s cross from the right.

However, City’s hopes of extending their winning run were dealt another blow eight minutes later.

Jackson completed his brace after meeting a low cross from substitute Ibrahim Mbaye with a first-time effort that went underneath Donnarumma’s left hand.

The goal restored Villa’s advantage and left City searching for another response.

Villa hold firm to secure historic win

City pushed forward in the closing stages as they attempted to rescue a point, with Haaland again threatening through a header.

Villa defender Ian Maatsen cleared the effort to safety, helping the hosts preserve their lead until the final whistle.

The result marked Villa’s fifth win in their past seven meetings with City and their fourth consecutive home win against Manchester club.

The victory also came on the fourth anniversary of Emery’s appointment as Villa manager, providing a notable milestone for the Spanish coach.

City’s defeat leaves their lead at the top of the Premier League at three points, with second-placed Arsenal scheduled to host Everton later in the day.