Aston Villa returns to the Champions League, defeats Liverpool and moves up the table - Gazeta Express
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football

Express newspaper

15/05/2026 23:17

Aston Villa returns to the Champions League, defeats Liverpool and moves up the table

football

Express newspaper

15/05/2026 23:17

Aston Villa secured Champions League qualification in style after a convincing victory that moved them past Liverpool in the standings and highlighted the problems that have accompanied Arne Slott's side's poor season.

Ollie Watkins was the hero of the match with two goals, after Virgil van Dijk had earlier equalised Morgan Rogers' wonderful goal.

Then, Villa captain John McGinn sealed the victory with a long-range shot.

Liverpool continue to have major defensive problems, having already conceded 20 goals from set pieces this season - more than any other team in the league.

Rogers took advantage of a well-worked corner kick in the first half, while Watkins scored again in the second.

For Aston Villa, who had had fluctuating form in the championship since the start of the year, this victory comes as a huge confidence boost ahead of the Europa League final on Wednesday.

The match at Villa Park started with a calm atmosphere and a low tempo, with both teams looking like they were ending their season.

Unai Emery had fielded a full squad, despite a European final looming, while Arne Slot was forced to make changes due to numerous absences.

Liverpool had some important returns such as Mohamed Salah and Florian Wirtz, but still numerous absences in the squad left the coach without many alternatives.

The first half did not bring many chances, apart from a few attempts from both sides, until Villa found the first goal after a corner kick scheme, where Morgan Rogers finished with a beautiful shot into the corner of the goal.

Liverpool tried to react and even found the net with Virgil van Dijk after a free kick, but VAR confirmed the goal.

The second half brought more intensity and chances from both teams, but Villa proved more efficient.

Watkins made it 2-1 after a mistake in the Liverpool defense and then sealed the victory with his second goal.

In the end, John McGinn completed the great triumph with a goal from distance, securing a victory that takes Aston Villa into the Champions League and leaves Liverpool facing a disappointing season in defense and consistency.

Aston Villa currently has 62 points in fourth place, while Liverpool has 59 points in fifth place./Express newspaper/

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