Aston Villa concluded their pre-season preparations at home with a 4-2 defeat to Real Sociedad, but the match was a showcase for the club's emerging young talents. Teenagers George Hemmings and Brian Madjo each found the net, continuing their impressive form ahead of the new campaign.
First-Half Action
Villa started brightly and took the lead in the 14th minute through Hemmings. The 19-year-old curled a precise effort into the far corner, giving the goalkeeper no chance. However, the lead lasted only minutes as Carlos Soler equalised for the visitors, capitalising on a rebound after an initial save.
The first half saw both sides create chances. Villa's Marco Bizot made an early save to deny Soler, while at the other end, Ian Maatsen forced a save from Álex Remiro. João Gomes produced a crucial block in midfield, and Modou Cisse impressed in defence despite a minor tactical misstep that drew a word from manager Unai Emery.
Second-Half Turnaround
Sociedad took the lead shortly after the break through Orri Óskarsson, who scored at the back post after a deflected free-kick. Villa responded well, and in the 58th minute, Brian Madjo bagged his third goal in two pre-season starts. Emi Buendía provided the assist with neat work, allowing Madjo to finish from close range.
The equaliser did not last long. Substitute Gorka Carrera restored Sociedad's lead in the 66th minute, beating Villa's substitute goalkeeper James Wright from inside the box. Wright then made a costly error late on, failing to hold a cross and inadvertently gifting Sociedad a fourth goal.
Player Ratings
Marco Bizot: Made a good early stop but was slightly hesitant for the equaliser. Solid overall. Matty Cash: Lively on the right, delivered dangerous crosses and had a shot wide. Modou Cisse: Impressive in defence despite a telling-off for going long. Won a key one-on-one duel. Tyrone Mings: Colossal in the air but caught in two minds for the equaliser. Ian Maatsen: Continued his run at left-back, had a shot saved. João Gomes: Made a crucial block and tracked runners well. Played 75 minutes. Ross Barkley: Lost possession once but recovered; less impactful than against Walsall. Brad Burrowes: Started on the right wing, played the whole second half. Emi Buendía: Returned from injury, operated as No.10 then left wing, created Madjo's goal. George Hemmings: Excellent first half with a superb goal and intelligent hold-up play. Brian Madjo: Scored once, drew two bookings, and constantly threatened the Sociedad defence.
Substitutes: James Wright (for Bizot) - helpless for the second goal but at fault for the fourth. Lamare Bogarde played centre-back and midfield. Pau Torres impressed with progressive passing. Luka Lynch and Ben Broggio had limited impact.
Hemmings and Madjo Stake Claims
George Hemmings has now scored twice in pre-season, following a goal against Walsall. Unai Emery is clearly a fan, having started him against Porto and now Sociedad. The 19-year-old made his senior debut last season in the Europa League and earned two Premier League appearances. His composure and maturity suggest he could provide valuable depth in the final third.
Brian Madjo has also caught the eye, with three goals in two starts. His pace and direct running caused constant problems, earning defenders bookings. Both youngsters are making strong cases for first-team inclusion as Villa prepare for a long season.
The defeat may be a concern defensively, but the emergence of academy products offers optimism. Villa will now head to the Far East for further friendlies before the new campaign begins.
