Mohamed Salah gave Liverpool the lead in the 29th minute, capitalizing on a mistake by Andres Garcia. However, Villa responded quickly, with Youri Tielemans equalizing nine minutes later after Liverpool failed to clear Marcus Rashford's free-kick. Just before halftime, Ollie Watkins put Villa ahead with a well-placed header from Lucas Digne's cross.
Liverpool fought back in the second half, with Diogo Jota hitting the crossbar before Salah set up Trent Alexander-Arnold for a deflected strike that found the net. Darwin Nunez missed a golden chance to secure the win, blazing over from five yards. Villa also had a goal disallowed for offside, leaving both teams to settle for a point.
The result sets up a crucial week in the title race, with Liverpool facing Manchester City next. Arsenal, who play West Ham on Saturday, could close the gap further if Liverpool stumble at the Etihad.
Marcus Rashford made his first start for Villa since joining on loan from Manchester United. He was lively in the first half, with his cross deflecting off Virgil van Dijk into the net, only to be ruled offside. He showed a strong work ethic, tracking back and pressing Liverpool's defense before being substituted in the second half as he regains match fitness.
His move to Villa comes at a pivotal moment in his career, seeking a fresh start after struggles at United. Early signs suggest he is adapting well under Unai Emery, and with Villa having a £40 million option to buy, he may have found a new home.
Salah's goal and assist at Villa Park took his Premier League tally to 24 goals and 15 assists this season. He became the first player in Premier League history to record a goal and assist in 10 different games in a single campaign and the first since Lionel Messi in 2014-15 to do so in Europe's top five leagues.
With his contract expiring soon, Salah is proving invaluable to Liverpool, but his teammates' lack of finishing could cost them in the title race.
