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Firmino’s Equalizer Against Aston Villa Keep Liverpool’s UCL Hopes Alive

By Ikio Biobelemoye

May 20, 2023

Roberto Firmino’s 89th minute equalizer against Aston Villa, which helped keep alive Liverpool’s faint hopes of a top-four finish in the Premier League, served a fitting farewell from the Reds.

Jurgen Klopp’s side is in the race with Newcastle United and Manchester United for Champions League qualification for next season but are three points behind their two rivals with one game remaining.

Both teams need just one point from their final two games to secure a place in the European club fiesta next season.

Firmino sneaked in at the near post to convert Mohamed Salah’s low cross and secure a draw with the Lions.

Unai Emery’s men were almost coasting home with a remarkable victory on the wings of Jacob Ramsey’s 27th minute goals sweet guided volley at the back post from Douglas Luiz’s cross.

This was after Ibrahima Konate tripped Ollie Watkins in the box, and the striker sent his penalty wide.

Liverpool improved thereafter and was sure they had equalised when Cody Gakpo converted following a scramble, but the effort was ruled out for offside in the build-up.

Villa maintain their European aspirations by moving up to seventh after the draw, but missed out on going sixth as a result of the late equaliser.

Today’s loss was a costly two points dumped by Liverpool, which really needed a win after Manchester United sauntered to a victory against Bournemouth that may be the key to sealing a top-four place.

The Reds came into the contest on the back of a resurgence in form, winning their last seven league games to spark hopes of playing in Europe’s elite club competition next season.

Brazilian forward, Firmino, who has provided plenty of memorable moments in a red shirt to his Anfield fans and team-mates, leaves the club at the end of the season.

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