From shot-shy to shoot on sight - Villa find a way to win

What the report says

Aston Villa claimed their first win of the season with a 3-1 Champions League victory at Club Brugge, but the result was more difficult than the early scoreline suggested. BBC Sport reported that John McGinn, Emi Buendia and Nicolas Jackson scored for Unai Emery’s side, with McGinn becoming Villa’s all-time leading scorer in European competition on 12 goals.

Villa were in control at half-time, helped by a strong attacking display and a first goal for Jackson since his move from Chelsea. However, Club Brugge rallied after the break, reducing the deficit from the penalty spot after a handball and putting Villa under pressure for the final half hour. The visitors had chances to add more goals, while Brugge also hit the post, leaving Emery’s team to rely on resilience as much as quality.

The BBC said the win matters because Villa have had a difficult start to the campaign, including a slow Premier League opening and only one shot on target across their first three league matches before this game. With several new signings and a reshaped squad, Emery is trying to build momentum step by step. The article suggested the victory could help Villa’s Champions League progress, with home matches against Fenerbahce and Viking to follow in October.