GistReel
Nicolas Jackson scored his first goal for Aston Villa as Unai Emery’s side secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Club Brugge in their Champions League opener.
The Senegal international capped an impressive first-half performance with Villa’s third goal, helping the visitors overcome a late fightback from the Belgian champions to claim their first win of the season.
Jackson, who joined Villa during the summer, proved a constant threat in attack and repeatedly looked to exploit the space behind the Brugge defence.
His breakthrough arrived shortly before half-time after Villa had already taken control of a frantic contest.
Jackson punishes Brugge goalkeeper Sommer
After a Brugge attack broke down, Pau Torres sent a long ball forward in search of Jackson.
The forward raced onto it as veteran goalkeeper Yann Sommer came rushing out of his area. Jackson managed to get the final touch with his thigh, taking the ball beyond the stranded goalkeeper before calmly tapping into an empty net.
The goal completed a productive opening half for Villa and gave Jackson a memorable start to his Champions League campaign with his new club.
John McGinn had earlier put the visitors ahead with a low finish after a driving run from Torres, while Hugo Vetlesen briefly restored parity for Brugge.
Emiliano Buendia then put Villa back in front after an excellent attacking move involving Jackson and Joao Gomes.
Jackson’s contribution was particularly significant given Villa’s struggles in front of goal before the match. Emery’s team had failed to score and managed only one shot on target since their UEFA Super Cup defeat in Salzburg.
Villa survive late Brugge pressure
Villa appeared comfortable after Jackson’s goal but were forced into a nervous finish after the interval.
The hosts increased the pressure and eventually pulled another goal back when Aaron Wan-Bissaka was penalised for handball following a VAR review.
Nicolo Tresoldi converted from the penalty spot to make it 3-2 and give Brugge hope of completing the comeback.
Emery responded by introducing fresh legs as Villa tried to regain control.
Jackson nearly restored their two-goal advantage, while Lamare Bogarde saw an effort cleared off the line as the visitors were forced to defend a succession of late crosses.
Villa eventually held on to secure their first victory of the season, with Jackson’s first goal for the club providing one of the major positives from a hard-fought night in Belgium.