New Delhi: It was a new season but a familiar story for Aston Villa as they kicked off their campaign with a frustrating 0-0 draw against Newcastle United at Villa Park. Both the ends managed to clinch one point each with Ezri Konsa getting booked for the first red card of the season in the second-half of the match.
The home crowd arrived in good spirits after a strong summer but early signs were worrying, The Magpies were dominating from the first whistle and carved out even better chances.Anthony Elanga, lively on debut, forced Marco Bizot into a fine early stop before snatching at another golden opening. Anthony Gordon also spurned a chance when he headed Harvey Barnes’ cross over from close range. Villa, meanwhile, barely threatened and went into half-time without a single shot on target.
Eddie Howe’s side ruled the first half racking up 1.16 expected goals while the Villans produced virtually nothing in the final third, ending the half on 0.00 xG. Elanga and Gordon repeatedly exposed gaps in the home defence but Villa were saved by Bizot, making his first appearance in goal since arriving in the summer.
It’s been all Newcastle but nothing to separate the sides at half-time 🤝 pic.twitter.com/ZIegOvkbDv
— Premier League (@premierleague) August 16, 2025
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