In the last seconds of the game, Roberto Firmino netted the equaliser to give Liverpool a point, capping his Anfield comeback with a pivotal goal.
Jacob Ramsey’s first-half goal had kept the teams apart until the Brazilian scored his 110th goal for the team, ending the Reds’ seven-game winning streak.
Even if it came dangerously close to spoiling the festive mood at Anfield. In the Europa Conference League standings, Villa overtook Tottenham after Spurs’ 3-1 loss to Brentford at home.
Firmino kept thoughts of Champions League football alive for at least a few games even though Liverpool has already locked up European play for the upcoming season in the shape of the Europa League.
Because of Casemiro’s first-half goal, Manchester United was able to defeat Bournemouth and keep the deficit at three points.
To have any chance of finishing in the top four, Liverpool must now hope that either Manchester United or Newcastle lose their remaining two games.
Newcastle United – 3rd position
Leicester City (H) – May 22
Chelsea (A) – May 28
Manchester United – 4th position
Chelsea (H) – May 25
Fulham (H) – May 28
Liverpool – 5th position
Southampton (A) – May 28