Aston Villa and Newcastle United kicked off their 2025/26 Premier League campaigns with a hard-fought 0-0 draw at Villa Park. The match was a tale of missed opportunities for Newcastle, who failed to capitalize on their dominance and a second-half red card to Villa defender Ezri Konsa.
The Magpies were the more dominant side for much of the game, creating several clear-cut chances, particularly in the first half. With star striker Alexander Isak absent from the match-day squad, Newcastle's attack, led by Anthony Gordon, was unable to find the breakthrough despite their pressure.
The game's turning point came in the 66th minute when Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa was shown a straight red card for a last-man foul on Anthony Gordon. Playing with a man advantage, Newcastle was expected to push for a late winner, but a resolute Villa defense, led by the experienced Tyrone Mings, held firm.
For Unai Emery's Aston Villa, a point from their opening match against a direct rival is a valuable result, especially after playing the final quarter of the game with ten men. The clean sheet will be a point of pride for the team, while Newcastle will be left to ponder what might have been, as they failed to secure all three points despite their dominance.

