Aston Villa secured a thrilling 4-3 victory over Sunderland at Villa Park, thanks to a last-minute goal from Tammy Abraham. This win significantly boosts Villa's chances of qualifying for the Champions League next season, as they now sit 10 points clear in the top five following Chelsea's defeat to Manchester United.

Ollie Watkins Shines Again

Ollie Watkins was instrumental for Villa, scoring two goals, while 18-year-old Chris Rigg netted Sunderland's equaliser. Watkins’ performance further solidifies his case for inclusion in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad this summer, especially after being omitted from the England squad in March. With six goals in his last five matches, his form is hard to overlook.

Late Drama at Villa Park

The match began with Villa taking an early lead, as John McGinn set up Watkins for a goal just 98 seconds in. Sunderland responded quickly, with Rigg scoring his first Premier League goal to level the match. Villa regained the lead before halftime through another header from Watkins, assisted by Morgan Rogers. The second half saw Rogers score, putting Villa ahead 3-1. However, Sunderland fought back with two quick goals from Trai Hume and Wilson Isidor, leveling the score once again. In a dramatic finish, Abraham came off the bench to secure the win for Villa.

This victory keeps Villa firmly in the race for European football, while Sunderland missed the opportunity to climb into the top six.