Premier League: Villa ends City's seven-game winning streak

Manchester City entered Saturday's match with a perfect record, having won their first seven Premier League games of the season. That run came to an abrupt end at Villa Park with a 2-1 loss to Aston Villa.

The defeat marked the first time in four seasons that City lost at this ground. Manager Enzo Maresca had previously become the first coach to win his opening seven league matches after joining a new club. He could not replicate that success against Unai Emery's side, which has rebuilt its squad over the summer.

Nicolas Jackson scored both goals for Villa. The Senegalese striker opened the scoring in the sixth minute after a heavy touch by Marc Guehi allowed him to cut inside Elliott Anderson. Jackson then blasted a high shot past goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.

City controlled possession for much of the first half but struggled to break down Villa's defense. Goalkeeper Zion Suzuki made key saves against Iliman Ndiaye, Rayan Cherki, and Abdukodir Khusanov. Ndiaye also struck the post during the first half.

Erling Haaland equalized in the 52nd minute with a header from Ndiaye's cross. It was his 13th goal in 10 appearances this season. Josko Gvardiol nearly gave City the lead moments later, but Suzuki directed a fierce drive onto the crossbar.

Jackson restored Villa's lead in the 60th minute. Ibrahim Mbaye crossed the ball from behind the defense, and Jackson finished low past Donnarumma. City pushed for an equalizer in the final minutes but could not find a way past Suzuki.

The result puts pressure on Arsenal, which plays Everton later on Saturday. If Arsenal wins, they will level with City on points at the top of the table. For Villa, the win moves them to sixth place and marks their sixth victory in seven games across all competitions.

Emery has guided Villa to Champions League qualification despite losing six starting players from last season's Europa League final. Summer signings Jackson, Suzuki, Mbaye, and Johan Manzambi have performed well since joining. City continue to appeal a guilty verdict on over 100 financial charges from 2009 to 2018, a case that could lead to relegation.