Johan Manzambi returned to St James' Park to deliver a decisive blow to Newcastle United, scoring the only goal of the match in the 36th minute as Aston Villa secured a 1-0 victory on Saturday Night Football.

Manzambi, who had previously agreed to join the Magpies, instead made a late switch to Villa, where he has quickly made his mark. Just days after scoring in the Champions League against Fernerbahce on his 21st birthday, he capitalized on a well-placed cross from Gomes.

The defeat marked a new low for Newcastle, as they set a club record with 16 consecutive games without a clean sheet in all competitions.

Key moments included:

• 9th minute: Nicolas Jackson misses a chance, shooting straight at Lukas Hornicek.
• 18th minute: Sven Botman receives a yellow card for a challenge on Jackson, with VAR reviewing for a potential red card but deciding against it.
• 35th minute: Manzambi scores, giving Villa the lead.
• 39th minute: Emi Buendia nearly doubles the lead, hitting the post.
• 49th minute: A stunning save from Zion Suzuki denies Botman’s powerful strike.

Despite a more promising second half, Newcastle managed only one shot on target, leading to loud boos from frustrated fans at both half-time and full-time. Meanwhile, Aston Villa, though guilty of missed chances, showcased the resilience and attacking flair that Unai Emery aims to instill in the team. The win brings Villa level on points with Newcastle, sitting just behind them in the league table.