Aston Villa's Champions League aspirations took a hit as they were held to a 2-2 draw by already-relegated Burnley at Turf Moor on Sunday. The result came just three days after Villa secured their place in the Europa League final with a convincing victory over Nottingham Forest.
First Half Action
Burnley, who had lost five consecutive matches, showed no signs of resignation. Jaidon Anthony gave the hosts an early lead in the eighth minute, converting after Loum Tchaouna's cross was parried by Emiliano Martinez. Villa responded with efforts from Morgan Rogers and Ian Maatsen, but they were fortunate not to fall further behind when Zian Flemming fired wide after a slip by Ezri Konsa.
As Villa began to dominate, Ross Barkley and Youri Tielemans came close. However, Burnley's debutant goalkeeper Max Weiss made several saves. Villa thought they had equalised when Ollie Watkins headed in, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Just four minutes later, Barkley levelled with a header from a corner.
Second Half Drama
Flemming missed another chance early in the second half before Villa took the lead in the 56th minute. A long kick from Martinez found Watkins, who poked the ball past Weiss. But Burnley struck back three minutes later when Anthony robbed Matty Cash, and Flemming smashed home after a back-heel from Hannibal Mejbri.
Both sides pushed for a winner. Maxime Esteve made a crucial block to deny Barkley, while Martinez saved from Zeki Amdouni. Villa substitute Emiliano Buendia had penalty appeals waved away as the visitors settled for a point.
Implications
The draw leaves Villa four points ahead of Bournemouth with two games remaining, meaning Champions League qualification is not yet assured. Villa boss Unai Emery made three changes from the Europa League semi-final, while Burnley interim manager Michael Jackson made six alterations, including a return for Axel Tuanzebe after three months out.
