AdminAston Villa claimed their first Champions League victory of the campaign with a thrilling 3-2 win over Club Brugge in Belgium.
Unai Emery’s side raced into a commanding position after Nicolas Jackson, Emi Buendia and John McGinn found the net inside the opening 45 minutes.
Nicolo Tresoldi’s second-half penalty threatened to set up a nervy finale, but Villa held firm to secure three valuable points.
Jackson was one of the standout performers. The new striker opened his European account by reacting quickest to Yann Sommer’s mistake and continually troubled Brugge with his pace and movement.
He completed two dribbles and created three chances, underlining his growing influence in Emery’s attack.
McGinn was equally impressive. The Villa captain created four chances, while his work without possession was outstanding. The Scotland international made four tackles and recovered the ball four times, helping his side manage the closing stages.
However, not everyone impressed.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka endured a difficult first start for Villa. The defender conceded the penalty that allowed Tresoldi to score and failed to win any of his three attempted tackles. He was also dribbled past twice and completed only 25 per cent of his crosses.
With Matty Cash still ahead of him in the pecking order, Wan-Bissaka must improve quickly. After such a display, Emery may be tempted to return him to the bench against Nottingham Forest this weekend.
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