Aston Villa secured Champions League qualification with a 4-2 Premier League victory over Liverpool on May 15 at Villa Park. [1, 2, 3] Ollie Watkins scored twice, while Morgan Rogers and John McGinn also found the net to power Villa’s win. [1, 2, 3, 4] Liverpool’s two goals came from Virgil van Dijk, who scored one in stoppage time. [1, 2, 3]
The win lifted Aston Villa into fourth place with 62 points from 37 games, moving above Liverpool who dropped to fifth on 59 points. [1, 2, 3, 4] Liverpool face an uphill battle to qualify for next season’s Champions League, depending on results in their final game and those of Bournemouth and Brighton. [1, 2, 3]
Liverpool have suffered 12 Premier League defeats this season and earned only one point from their last nine available. [1, 2, 3] They also conceded a league-high 20 goals from set pieces this year. [5] Manager Arne Slot acknowledged the team’s disappointment but said the focus remains on their final game against Brentford. "Everyone involved is disappointed—players, coaches, and fans," Slot said. "Our focus is on the Brentford game and making sure we earn the support of the fans by starting the game aggressive and well," he added. [6, 7]
Unai Emery praised Villa’s achievement, calling it "something amazing" to compete in both the Premier League and Europa League consistently. "We had a fantastic season in the Premier League and I am so proud," he said. [7] Midfielder John McGinn highlighted Watkins’ response to missing out on the England squad in March, calling it a "kick up the backside" that led to his strong performance. [4]
Aston Villa will face Freiburg in the Europa League final on May 20. [1, 2, 3] The team will aim to build on their recent success as they prepare for that match.
