In a thrilling Europa League encounter at Villa Park, Aston Villa produced a stunning comeback to secure a 3-2 victory over RB Salzburg, with nineteen-year-old substitute Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba netting a dramatic late winner. The hosts, already assured of progression to the last sixteen, demonstrated remarkable resilience to overturn a two-goal deficit, though the triumph was tempered by further injury concerns for manager Unai Emery.
Salzburg's Early Dominance and Villa's Injury Woes
The Austrian visitors, needing a win to keep their European hopes alive, started brightly and capitalised on defensive errors. Karim Konate opened the scoring in the 33rd minute after Tyrone Mings was dispossessed, bundling the ball home despite Victor Lindelof's efforts. Villa's troubles compounded when star striker Ollie Watkins was forced off with a suspected hamstring injury in the 35th minute, adding to Emery's growing list of fitness concerns.
Second-Half Setback and Inspirational Response
RB Salzburg doubled their advantage early in the second half through Moussa Yeo's neat finish, leaving Villa with a mountain to climb. However, the introduction of substitute Morgan Rogers proved pivotal as he reduced the deficit with a well-taken goal midway through the half, injecting belief into the home side.
Tyrone Mings atoned for his earlier error by heading home Matty Cash's delivery in the 76th minute to level the scores, setting up a grandstand finish. With three minutes remaining, Jimoh-Aloba, who had only entered the fray as a substitute, showed remarkable composure to convert Kadan Young's cross, sparking wild celebrations at Villa Park and securing Villa's seventh win from eight group stage matches.
Emery's Selection Dilemmas and European Progress
Unai Emery's selection included on-loan midfielder Harvey Elliott, making his first appearance since October despite ongoing uncertainty about his future at the club. The victory ensures Villa finish in the top two of their Europa League group, though Emery will be concerned about Watkins' injury ahead of crucial domestic and European fixtures.
The match showcased Villa's character and depth, with substitutes making decisive contributions. Emiliano Martinez made several important saves to keep Villa in contention during Salzburg's dominant periods, particularly denying Konate and Soumaila Diabate in the first half with a smart double save.
This dramatic comeback victory reinforces Aston Villa's credentials as serious contenders in this season's Europa League, demonstrating their ability to overcome adversity and secure results through squad depth and tactical flexibility.
