According to a report by Flashscore on Saturday, October 24, 2026, former Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson produced a match-winning performance as Aston Villa defeated Manchester City 2-1 at Villa Park, scoring both goals and earning the Man of the Match award.

The Senegal international gave Unai Emery’s side an early advantage in the sixth minute, finishing confidently into the top-left corner after being set up by John McGinn. His goal rewarded Villa’s energetic start and immediately put City under pressure.

Jackson continued to cause problems for the visitors with his pace, movement and determination. He nearly doubled Villa’s lead in the 19th minute after driving forward with the ball, but his effort narrowly missed the target.

Manchester City eventually restored parity through Erling Haaland, who headed home in the 52nd minute. However, Jackson remained a threat and ensured Villa would have the final say.

Just eight minutes after Haaland’s equaliser, the striker found the net again to put Villa back in front. Receiving an excellent pass, Jackson showed composure to guide his finish into the bottom-right corner, leaving goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma with little chance.

His second strike proved decisive as Villa held on to claim an important victory over the reigning Premier League champions.

Apart from his goals, Jackson impressed with his willingness to take on defenders and combine with his teammates. His attacking movement gave Villa another outlet throughout the match and helped keep City’s defence occupied.

The brace earned him the Man of the Match accolade and capped an outstanding afternoon for the former Chelsea forward. More importantly, his goals secured all three points for Villa and handed Manchester City their first league defeat of the season.