Aston Villa produced a remarkable comeback to defeat Brighton & Hove Albion 4-3 at the Amex Stadium, climbing to third in the Premier League and extending their winning streak to six matches across all competitions.

Ollie Watkins Sparks Aston Villa Comeback

Brighton looked set to continue their excellent form when Jan Paul van Hecke opened the scoring after goalkeeper Marco Bizot failed to deal with a corner. Shortly afterward, a deflected effort by Pau Torres off substitute Jack Hinshelwood doubled the Seagulls’ advantage.

However, Villa’s response was swift and dramatic. Ollie Watkins, who had scored just once this season, struck twice before half-time to level the score. He first slotted home Ian Maatsen’s cross before racing onto a through ball to confidently finish his second, demonstrating his clinical striker’s instinct.

Second Half: Villa Take Control

Villa continued their dominance in the second half. Amadou Onana headed in a corner to put the visitors ahead, and Donyell Malen added a fourth almost immediately after entering the game, capitalizing on a rebound from Evann Guessand’s header.

Brighton attempted to stage a comeback with van Hecke scoring and Danny Welbeck testing Bizot, but Villa held firm to secure all three points.

Villa Analysis: Unai Emery’s Tactical Masterclass

Villa’s recent resurgence is a result of Unai Emery’s consistent tactics and motivational management. After failing to win in their first six games of the season, Villa have now won 12 and lost just two of their last 14 matches.

Watkins’ double highlighted Emery’s faith in him, with the striker finally delivering the goals his form deserved. Meanwhile, Donyell Malen, scoring in his sixth consecutive game across competitions, continues to provide a potent attacking option.

“Villa’s commitment to the game plan was fantastic,” said Emery. “The players showed resilience and belief, which was key to this comeback.”

Brighton Analysis: Encouraging but Disappointing

Brighton dominated early and looked comfortable leading 2-0, but they were unable to withstand Villa’s momentum shift. Despite the home defeat, they can take positives from their bold performance against one of the Premier League’s form teams. This loss marks Brighton’s first at home this season.

What’s Next

• Aston Villa host Arsenal on Saturday, 6 December (12:30 GMT), aiming to move within three points of the league leaders.
• Brighton return home to face West Ham United on Sunday, 7 December (14:00 GMT), seeking to regain momentum.

Player of the Match

• Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa) – 8.61

Other notable performances included:

• Brighton: Jan Paul van Hecke – 6.09, Jack Hinshelwood – 5.46
• Villa: Donyell Malen – 7.88, Amadou Onana – 7.45

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Key Takeaways

• Aston Villa complete a dramatic 4-3 comeback at Brighton, moving up to third in the Premier League.
• Ollie Watkins scores his first goals of the season, netting a crucial double.
• Donyell Malen continues his scoring streak, reinforcing Villa’s attacking threat.
• Brighton dominate early but fail to hold their two-goal lead.
• Unai Emery’s tactics and faith in his players are central to Villa’s current top-four push.