UEFA Europa League: Meet 19-Year-Old Jimoh Aloba, Aston Villa’s Nigerian Match Winner vs Salzburg

In a night filled with drama and sheer Nigerian brilliance, 19-year-old Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba stole the headlines as he announced himself on the European stage. The young attacking midfielder of Nigerian descent scored the decisive goal for Aston Villa in their thrilling 3–2 comeback victory over Red Bull Salzburg at Villa Park in the UEFA Europa League.

This victory not only secured a memorable win but also helped Villa finish second in the league phase of the competition, ensuring a favorable position in the knockout rounds. Jimoh-Aloba’s late strike capped off an unforgettable evening for Unai Emery’s side, who had looked down and out after trailing 2–0 early in the second half.

The match started disastrously for Villa. An own goal from Victor Lindelöf and a strike from Moussa Yeo put Salzburg in control. With star striker Ollie Watkins forced off due to injury in the first half, Villa struggled for momentum. But Emery turned to his bench, introducing Jimoh-Aloba in the 66th minute alongside fellow academy products like Kadan Young.

The teenager made an instant impact. Morgan Rogers sparked the comeback with a goal in the 64th minute, followed by Tyrone Mings’ equalizer. Then, in the 87th minute, Jimoh-Aloba tucked home a low cross from Young into the corner, sending Villa Park into ecstasy. This was his first senior goal for Aston Villa and made him the fourth-youngest scorer for the club in European competition.

At full-time, Jimoh-Aloba was urged towards the Holte End by teammate Amadou Onana, where he soaked in a rapturous reception from the Villa faithful. Speaking after the match, the young star described it as the pinnacle of his budding career.“It’s a proud moment for me on my European debut. Really nice to make my family proud. I’ve had a lot of lows and highs this season, but this is right at the top. My mum is in the stand somewhere,” he said emotionally.

Rising Nigerian Star Shining in Europe

Born to Nigerian parents, Jimoh-Aloba is a product of Nigerian heritage making waves abroad – a story that resonates deeply with football fans back home in Naija. He joined Aston Villa from rivals West Bromwich Albion in 2023 at just 16 years old, having already caught eyes while representing England at Under-16 and Under-17 levels. Despite his England youth caps, his Nigerian roots make him eligible for the Super Eagles, and this performance might just spark calls for him to don the green and white.

In October 2024, he penned a long-term contract with Villa and played a key role in their FA Youth Cup triumph last season, even scoring in the final against Manchester City. His senior journey began with a debut in the Carabao Cup against Wycombe Wanderers, followed by his Premier League bow last month against Arsenal.

Teammate Morgan Rogers, who knew Jimoh-Aloba from their time together at West Brom’s academy, was full of praise for the youngster’s dedication.

“He’s a really nice kid. He works hard in training and gives his all. He might be shy and nervous, but he shows his quality. Moments like this will bring him out of his shell,” Rogers said.

Manager Unai Emery echoed the sentiments, lauding the teenager after the match and emphasizing the value of trusting young talents on big stages. “Jamaldeen is a sensation. He showed great composure and ambition. It’s important to give opportunities to our academy players, and they seized it tonight,” Emery noted.

For Nigerian football enthusiasts, Jimoh-Aloba’s heroics are a reminder of the talent flowing from our shores. From Victor Osimhen to Ademola Lookman, Naija boys are conquering Europe, and now this 19-year-old is adding his name to the list. Could he be the next big thing for the Super Eagles? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – his goal against Salzburg is a defining moment that will inspire many young dreamers back home.