BIRMINGHAM, England (Interstat) — Aston Villa hosts Liverpool on Friday in a Premier League matchup with significant implications for the final stretch of the season.

Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m. local time at Villa Park.

Aston Villa enters the game following a 2-2 draw at Burnley on May 10, a result that snapped a two-match losing streak. The draw came after Villa conceded a late equalizer. Villa’s form has been inconsistent. The team earned a resounding 4-0 win over Nottingham Forest on May 7 but lost 2-1 to Tottenham Hotspur on May 3. In the previous meeting between these sides on May 2, Liverpool defeated Villa 3-2 at Anfield. Liverpool also won the Nov. 1, 2025, matchup 2-0.

Liverpool arrives after a 1-1 draw at home against Chelsea on May 9. That result followed a 3-2 loss at Manchester United on May 3. Liverpool’s recent run includes a strong stretch of wins but also two losses in its last four league matches. The team has scored multiple goals in six of its last eight games across all competitions.

Player to watch

Aston Villa midfielder Joshua Laurent is expected to feature after entering as a substitute in the Burnley match. He did not record a goal or assist in that game. His role will be critical in linking Villa’s attack and attempting to break Liverpool’s defensive structure. Laurent has been a consistent presence in the squad and will look to exploit any gaps in Liverpool’s midfield.

Head-to-head

Liverpool has won both Premier League meetings this season, including the 3-2 victory on May 2. Villa has not beaten Liverpool since the 2023-24 campaign. The teams have combined for five goals in their two meetings this season.

Projection

Interstat’s game simulator projects a 2-1 Liverpool victory.

Upcoming fixtures

Aston Villa travels to SC Freiburg on May 20 for a midweek match, then visits Manchester City on May 24. Liverpool hosts Brentford on May 24.

Liverpool will aim to tighten its defense after conceding two goals against Chelsea and three against Manchester United. Villa will look to capitalize on home support to avenge its recent losses to Liverpool.