Nicolas Jackson punishes Manchester United after 4 minutes.. and Aston Villa wastes an exciting victory

08.11.26 FT English Premier League

Manchester United

4

:

Aston Villa

4

Senegal international Nicolas Jackson continued his impressive goalscoring form on Sunday 8 November 2026 finding the net in the fourth minute as Aston Villa raced into a stunning 2-0 lead against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

The 25 year old striker doubled Villa's advantage after Brazilian winger Alysson had opened the scoring inside the first minute.

Jackson reacted quickest after United goalkeeper Senne Lammens failed to hold Alysson's effort tapping home the rebound from close range.

The goal gave Unai Emery's side a 2 goal lead after just 3 minute and 40 second marking the earliest Manchester United have ever trailed 2-0 in a Premier League match according to Opta.

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Nicolas Jackson continues impressive Aston Villa scoring run

Jackson's early strike was his sixth Premier League goal in nine appearances this season extending his outstanding start to life at Aston Villa.

The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich forward has rediscovered his goalscoring touch since moving to Villa Park in August.

As Foot Africa recently highlighted, the Senegalese striker has established himself as an increasingly important figure in Emery's attack after a challenging spell in Germany.

His latest goal also extended his scoring streak to three consecutive Premier League appearances, following a brace against Manchester City and another goal against Fulham.

Jackson subsequently added an assist in the 53rd minute setting up Leon Goretzka to put Villa 4-2 ahead.

Manchester United fight back in extraordinary 4-4 draw

Despite Jackson's remarkable opening, Aston Villa were unable to secure victory.

Bruno Fernandes and Youri Tielemans brought Manchester United level before half time while John McGinn and Goretzka restored Villa's 2 goal advantage after the restart.

However, Joshua Zirkzee struck in the 92nd minute before Patrick Dorgu completed a dramatic comeback four minutes later securing a 4-4 draw.

The result was particularly frustrating for Jackson whose goal and assist had seemingly put Aston Villa in control.

The Senegalese forward had been named in Villa's starting lineup alongside several African internationals featuring for Manchester United, including Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo.

Although the visitors surrendered their advantage, Jackson's individual performance provided another reminder of his growing influence in the Premier League.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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Manchester United

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English Premier League