Dango Ouattara announced himself in style on his Brentford debut, netting the decisive goal in a 1-0 victory over Aston Villa that delivered Keith Andrews his first Premier League win as Bees manager.
The £20m summer signing from Bournemouth struck just 12 minutes in, latching onto a Caoimhín Kelleher long clearance that was delicately flicked on by Thiago. Ouattara surged between Matty Cash and Pau Torres, slotting past Emiliano Martínez at the second attempt to open his Brentford account.
Despite enjoying 76% possession and unleashing 17 shots, Villa once again failed to score for a second successive league match, leaving Unai Emery frustrated by his side’s blunt edge in front of goal.
The warning signs were there early. Within three minutes, Mikkel Damsgaard sliced through Villa’s back line before bending a shot narrowly wide. Moments later, Ouattara struck what proved to be the game’s only goal.
The Bees, beginning their first campaign without Bryan Mbeumo and with Yoane Wissa seeking a move away, showcased fresh energy through new arrivals. Ouattara was a constant menace in attack, while Fiorentina recruit Michael Kayode provided drive from right-back. Behind them, debutant goalkeeper Kelleher impressed with a sharp reflex stop from John McGinn’s deflected strike.
Brentford thought they had doubled their lead before half-time when Damsgaard hammered in off the crossbar, only for VAR to confirm Nathan Collins had fouled Martínez in the build-up.
Villa improved after the interval with chances falling to Morgan Rogers and Emiliano Buendía, but their finishing continued to let them down. Amadou Onana summed up their wastefulness when he awkwardly swung with his weaker foot rather than shooting cleanly from Ollie Watkins’ inviting cut-back.
A notable subplot saw Jordan Henderson, making his first Premier League start since May 2023, receive a warm ovation from the home supporters upon his 69th-minute withdrawal. The 35-year-old former Liverpool captain showed glimpses of his trademark composure in midfield, reminding fans of his decorated past.
Ultimately, Brentford’s discipline and efficiency proved decisive. Andrews’ men absorbed Villa’s late pressure with relative comfort, suggesting a promising new chapter may be emerging in West London.
