Aston Villa vs Manchester City Report

Scorers: Duran 16’, Rogers 68’; Foden 90+3’

Aston Villa delivered a commanding performance to defeat Manchester City 2-1 at Villa Park, marking another chapter in the reigning champions’ recent struggles.

The victory lifts Unai Emery’s side into fifth place, while City are left reeling with only one win in their last 12 games across all competitions.

First Half: Villa Seize the Initiative

Both teams entered this fixture looking to bounce back from recent poor form, but it was Villa who took the initiative early.

An error from Joško Gvardiol handed Jhon Durán a golden chance, but the Colombian’s effort was thwarted by Stefan Ortega. Moments later, the City goalkeeper produced a stunning save to tip Pau Torres’ powerful header onto the crossbar.

Villa’s pressure eventually paid off in the 16th minute when Morgan Rogers sliced through City’s defence with a perfectly-timed run and pass to Durán, who made no mistake with a composed finish past Ortega.

City tried to respond, dominating possession, but struggled to create clear-cut opportunities. Jack Grealish, returning to Villa Park, was heavily involved but unable to inspire his side.

A chance did fall to Gvardiol before HT, but his header sailed over the bar, leaving the visitors trailing at the break.

Second Half: Villa Turn the Screws

The second half began as the first had ended, with Villa asserting themselves. Matty Cash came close with a strike into the side netting, and Durán had another effort disallowed for offside.

City looked flat, unable to match Villa’s intensity, and their defensive frailties were exposed again.

In the 65th minute, Villa doubled their lead. Morgan Rogers, instrumental throughout, exchanged passes with John McGinn before slotting the ball into the far corner. It was no less than the hosts deserved for their dominance.

City, uncharacteristically disjointed, managed only speculative efforts. A long-range strike from Phil Foden was comfortably dealt with by Emiliano Martínez, while Villa nearly added a third through Ollie Watkins, who was denied by Ortega.

Late Consolation for City

In stoppage time, City pulled one back through Phil Foden, whose first Premier League goal of the season offered a glimmer of hope.

However, it proved to be too little, too late, as Villa comfortably saw out the final moments to secure a statement win.

Key Performers

• Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa): The standout player, with a goal and an assist, constantly tormenting City’s defence.
• Jhon Durán (Aston Villa): Clinical in front of goal and a constant threat with his movement.
• Emiliano Martínez (Aston Villa): Commanding in goal, denying City any foothold in the second half.

What’s Next?

Villa’s win extends their unbeaten home run in the league to eight games, as they push for European qualification. Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola’s City face an uphill battle to regain form, with their defensive woes and lack of cutting edge raising serious questions about their title defence.

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Aston Villa v Man City, 2024/25 | Premier League