Aston Villa delivered a thrilling second-half comeback to secure a 3-2 victory over RB Salzburg in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday, though the win was tempered by concerns over striker Ollie Watkins' fitness.

Late Heroics Seal Villa's Progress

Nineteen-year-old substitute Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba became the hero for Unai Emery's side, scoring his first senior goal in the 87th minute to complete a remarkable turnaround at Villa Park. The hosts had trailed 2-0 after Salzburg's Karim Konaté and Moussa Yeo found the net, but goals from Morgan Rogers and Tyrone Mings set the stage for Jimoh-Aloba's dramatic winner.

"He felt something, but not a lot," Emery said of Watkins' injury. "We'll assess him tomorrow and hope it's minor."

Injury Worries for Watkins

The match took a concerning turn for Villa when Watkins limped off in the 35th minute with a suspected hamstring issue. The England international's absence could prove costly as Villa prepare for a busy Premier League schedule.

Statistical Highlights

  • Villa achieved their third-ever comeback from a two-goal deficit in European competition.
  • Jimoh-Aloba became Villa's fourth-youngest European goalscorer at 19 years and 119 days.
  • Mings, at 32 years and 322 days, became Villa's oldest European scorer.

What's Next?

With their place in the Europa League knockout stages secured, Villa now shift focus to domestic duties. Salzburg, meanwhile, exit the competition after failing to hold their lead.

Reporting from Villa Park

Tags:

#Comeback #Europa League #Aston Villa #Injury #Jimoh-Aloba