Unai Emery’s side, who had endured a difficult opening to their domestic campaign, produced a much-improved attacking display in Belgium to claim all three points.
McGinn puts Villa ahead
Villa captain John McGinn opened the scoring in the 11th minute, giving the visitors an early advantage.
Club Brugge responded quickly, with Hugo Vetlesen equalising eight minutes later to bring the Belgian champions level.
Villa restored their lead in the 22nd minute through Emiliano Buendía, who finished after an impressive attacking move involving new signing Nicolas Jackson and João Gomes.
Jackson scores first Villa goal
The visitors then extended their advantage before half-time when Nicolas Jackson capitalised on a defensive mistake to make it 3-1.
The goal was particularly significant for the Senegal international, who was making his Champions League debut for Villa after joining the club during the summer.
Jackson’s pace caused problems for the Brugge defence, while goalkeeper Yann Sommer was involved in a costly mistake as Villa took control of the contest.
Brugge fight back
Club Brugge refused to surrender and reduced the deficit in the second half.
Nicolò Tresoldi converted from the penalty spot after a VAR review confirmed a handball against Aston Villa defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
The hosts continued to push for an equaliser and placed Villa under considerable pressure during the closing stages.
However, Emery’s side defended resolutely to protect their advantage and secure a crucial away victory.
Villa begin Champions League campaign with victory
The victory gives Aston Villa an important three points at the start of the new Champions League league phase.
It also provides a significant boost for Emery’s side after a disappointing start to their Premier League campaign, in which they had failed to win or score in their opening three matches.
For Club Brugge, the defeat continues a difficult record against English opposition despite their previous 1-0 victory over Villa in Belgium in the 2024/25 Champions League. Villa subsequently won the return fixture 3-1 before completing a 3-0 victory at home in the last-16 stage.
Final score: Club Brugge 2-3 Aston Villa
Goals:
• 11' John McGinn — Aston Villa
• 19' Hugo Vetlesen — Club Brugge
• 22' Emiliano Buendía — Aston Villa
• Nicolas Jackson — Aston Villa
• Nicolò Tresoldi — Club Brugge (penalty)