Villa ends City's winning streak

Manchester City lost its seven-game winning streak at Aston Villa on Saturday. The 10-time English champions fell 2-1 to Unai Emery's side, a result that snapped their perfect start to the season. Nicolas Jackson provided both goals for the visitors.

The match decided the first major test for Enzo Maresca. He had just become the first manager to win his opening seven Premier League matches with a new club. City had previously lost at Villa Park in each of the last four seasons. The pattern held true this time.

Villa struck early. After six minutes, Marc Guehi made a heavy touch. Jackson collected the ball, cut inside Elliott Anderson, and blasted a high shot past Gianluigi Donnarumma. City controlled possession for much of the first half. They failed to score due to saves by Zion Suzuki and a post hit by Iliman Ndiaye.

Erling Haaland equalized in the 52nd minute. He powered in a header from a Ndiaye cross. This marked his 13th goal in 10 appearances this season. Josko Gvardiol nearly gave City the lead moments later, but Suzuki forced a crossbar off his drive. Villa retook the lead in the 60th minute. Ibrahim Mbaye crossed for Jackson, who beat Donnarumma with a low shot.

The defeat keeps City at the top of the table, but Arsenal can move level on points if they beat Everton later on Saturday. For Villa, the win was their sixth in seven games across all competitions. It lifted the team to sixth place in the league.

Emery has rebuilt the squad after losing six players who started last season's Europa League final. Summer signings Jackson, Suzuki, Mbaye, and Johan Manzambi have already contributed. City continues to appeal a guilty verdict on over 100 financial rule charges from 2009 to 2018. The potential sanctions include relegation. Two defensive errors at Villa Park decided the match.