Aston Villa recorded their biggest-ever European victory on Wednesday after thrashing Fenerbahce 6-0 in the UEFA Champions League, with Nicolas Jackson scoring twice in a dominant display at Villa Park.
Johan Manzambi opened the scoring in the 12th minute before Jackson netted twice to give Unai Emery’s side a commanding three-goal lead at half-time.
Ross Barkley added two goals after the break, including a penalty, while substitute Tammy Abraham completed the emphatic victory with a stoppage-time strike.
The win marked Villa’s first home victory of the season and extended their perfect start in the Champions League, offering relief to a side struggling in the Premier League, where they sit 16th.
Villa responded strongly to criticism over their recent home performances, extending their unbeaten run in all competitions to four matches.
Manzambi broke the deadlock after capitalising on a loose header from Matteo Guendouzi, taking a touch before unleashing a powerful shot that deflected off Milan Skriniar and beat goalkeeper Ederson.
Fenerbahce threatened an equaliser through Vedat Muriqi, but Villa goalkeeper Zion Suzuki made crucial saves to keep the visitors at bay.
Jackson doubled Villa’s lead in the 31st minute after receiving a pass from Boubacar Kamara and guiding a low finish past Ederson. The Senegalese striker struck again eight minutes later, firing from 18 yards as the goalkeeper failed to keep out his effort.
Jackson’s brace took his tally to five goals in eight appearances since joining Villa from Chelsea in August.
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Fenerbahce came close to reducing the deficit when Oguz Aydin struck the crossbar, but Villa maintained their control after the break.
Barkley converted from the penalty spot after Ismail Yuksek fouled Manzambi, before adding his second four minutes later with a shot that deflected off Bartug Elmaz and into the net.
Abraham sealed the result in stoppage time, tapping in Alysson’s cross to complete Villa’s record European victory.
The emphatic result strengthens Villa’s position in the Champions League while providing a significant morale boost as Emery’s side attempt to improve their domestic campaign.
