Aston Villa embarked on their Far East pre-season tour following a 4-2 defeat against Real Sociedad at the Bescot Stadium. Goals from George Hemmings and Brian Madjo either side of half-time gave Villa hope, but three second-half strikes from the Spanish visitors secured their victory.
Under Unai Emery’s management, Villa now prepare for upcoming fixtures against the Indonesia All Stars, BG Pathum United in Thailand, and Bayern Munich in Hong Kong, all building up to the UEFA Super Cup showdown with Paris Saint-Germain in two weeks.
Brian Madjo once again impressed with his physical presence and attacking threat, troubling senior Sociedad defenders and netting twice in his first two pre-season appearances. At just 17, Madjo’s robust style appears well-suited to Premier League demands, showcasing natural goal-scoring instincts that are uncommon qualities to develop solely through training.
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The Sociedad defence found it difficult to contain him, resorting to fouls that earned two bookings. A notable moment saw Madjo racing onto a loose ball inside the penalty area to regain possession following a failed set-piece, emphasising his sharpness and determination. Despite this promise, patience remains essential as Madjo continues to mature, especially while awaiting FIFA’s decision on his registration, a matter currently under appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) due to his age.
Midfield featured Ross Barkley partnering new signing João Gomes in a double pivot. Gomes exhibited dynamic energy in the first 30 minutes, including a decisive block and an important tackle to quell Sociedad’s attacking threats, underlining his defensive contributions.
George Hemmings stood out during his 45 minutes on the pitch, particularly with a well-taken goal curling into the far corner past goalkeeper Alex Remiro. Throughout the first half, Emery’s encouragement was audible, repeatedly exclaiming “Fantastic, George,” praising the young player’s efforts on both ends of the pitch.
However, a mix-up at half-time caused confusion. Luka Lynch was meant to replace Hemmings but was left off the field when the second half began, as the referee mistakenly thought he had already entered. As Lynch was still preparing equipment beside Emery, Villa started the half with only 10 men on the pitch for approximately two minutes until the substitution was completed.
Emery maintained high energy from the touchline despite the friendly nature of the match. His sharpest reaction was directed at young defender Modou Cisse after the player chose not to play out from the back, prompting a stern rebuke. Cisse acknowledged Emery’s instruction with a raised hand and otherwise performed well, notably denying a one-on-one attempt by Orri Óskarsson as Villa’s last defender.
Cisse, like Madjo and Hemmings, has been a notable presence during pre-season and is gaining valuable experience akin to the pathway followed by Lamare Bogarde after returning from loan spells with Bristol Rovers two years ago.