Premier League European battle heats up with Aston Villa’s key win

Though Newcastle responded through Fabian Schar to level the score, Villa dominated the second half. Goals from Ian Maatsen, a Dan Burn own goal and a late strike from Amadou Onana capped a ruthless display. 

Coming just days after its Europa Conference League exit to Paris Saint-Germain, the performance served as a timely lift for Unai Emery’s squad.

The result moves Villa onto 57 points, level with Nottingham Forest and just one behind Manchester City in fourth. Newcastle, still clinging to third place, is now only two points ahead. Chelsea remains firmly in contention as well, with a game against Fulham on Sunday offering a chance to climb back into the mix.

Elsewhere, Manchester City defeated Everton 2–0 to jump into the Champions League places, while Forest remains a key factor in the race, with a game in hand against Tottenham Hotspur on Monday. With six clubs now separated by just five points from third to seventh, the battle for Europe is finely poised heading into the final stretch.

Villa’s strong home form has underpinned its campaign, and its remaining fixtures — including a pivotal midweek clash with Manchester City — could prove decisive. In a race this tight, goal difference and head-to-head results may ultimately determine who claims a coveted Champions League spot.

This season’s European battle has extended well beyond the traditional "big six." With just five games remaining for most clubs, the Premier League is set for a dramatic finish, driven by resurgent contenders, breakout performers and the slimmest of margins.