Recap

Malen Brace Seals Crucial Win for Villa in Tight Battle with Burnley

Donyell Malen stepped up in Unai Emery’s 150th match in charge to score a brace and secure a 2-1 victory over Burnley, as Aston Villa claimed their fourth straight win in all competitions. ESPN.com+2Premier League+2

Burnley responded late through Lesley Ugochukwu’s header, but Villa held on to maintain the momentum. The Guardian+1

Match Flow & Key Moments

• Villa broke the deadlock in the 25th minute, when Boubacar Kamara’s inventive through pass found Malen. The Dutch forward darted away from Maxime Estève and slotted the ball home. Reuters+3ESPN.com+3Premier League+3

• After a period of sustained pressure, Villa doubled their advantage in the 63rd minute. Morgan Rogers set up Malen, who unleashed a powerful strike into the bottom-left corner. Reuters+3ESPN.com+3Premier League+3

• Burnley would not go quietly. In the 78th minute, Ugochukwu headed home from a corner to pull a goal back and set up a tense finish. The Guardian+2Premier League+2

• In the closing stages, Villa survived a late flurry from the visitors. Burnley created pressure, but Villa’s defense and goalkeeper held firm to see out the win. Premier League+1

Implications & Observations

• The win moves Aston Villa into 13th place with renewed confidence. Premier League+2Reuters+2

• Burnley remain in the relegation zone, extending their winless run, and face increasing pressure. Premier League+1

• Malen’s performance underscores the depth in Villa’s attacking options, especially when their usual starters struggle for form. Reuters+2The Guardian+2