Roberto Firmino came to Liverpool’s rescue with an 89th-minute equalizer against Aston Villa, keeping their slim hopes of securing a top-four finish in the Premier League alive.
Jurgen Klopp’s team currently trail Newcastle United and Manchester United by three points, with only one game remaining. This means that their two rivals require just a single point from their final two matches to secure a coveted Champions League spot for the next season.
Although it may seem improbable, Liverpool’s mathematical chances are still intact, thanks to Firmino’s timely goal. The departing striker managed to sneak in at the near post and convert Mohamed Salah’s low cross, ensuring a crucial point for his team.
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Liverpool will feel a tinge of disappointment as they had opportunities to claim all three points after putting on an impressive display. During the first half, they were presented with a golden chance to take the lead when Ollie Watkins was brought down in the box by Ibrahima Konate. However, Watkins failed to capitalize, sending his penalty wide.
Unai Emery’s Villa side continued to press forward and were rewarded with a well-deserved goal before halftime. Jacob Ramsey expertly guided a volley into the back of the net from Douglas Luiz’s cross, giving his team the lead.
Liverpool gradually improved their performance and thought they had equalized when Cody Gakpo found the net in a scramble. Unfortunately, the goal was disallowed due to an offside infringement in the build-up.
With the draw, Villa maintain their aspirations for European qualification, climbing up to seventh place in the league. However, they missed out on moving up to sixth position as a result of Liverpool’s late equalizer.
