Chelsea’s push for Champions League qualification suffered a setback after Chelsea FC were held to a 1–1 draw by Burnley FC at Stamford Bridge, while Aston Villa struck late to claim a point against Leeds United on Saturday.
The Blues edged into the Premier League top four on goal difference after failing to capitalise on Joao Pedro’s early opener. Momentum shifted when Wesley Fofana was dismissed with 18 minutes remaining, and Zian Flemming headed in a stoppage-time equaliser to keep Burnley’s survival hopes alive. The Clarets now sit eight points from safety.
Villa’s difficult run at home continued despite salvaging a draw. Anton Stach gave Leeds the lead with a spectacular long-range free-kick that caught Emiliano Martinez off guard, extending the visitors’ strong recent form under Daniel Farke. But Tammy Abraham struck two minutes from time to rescue a point.
Five English clubs remain on course to secure Champions League places next season, with Liverpool FC and Manchester United able to close the gap when they face Nottingham Forest and Everton FC respectively.
Elsewhere, James Milner set a new record with his 654th league appearance as Brighton & Hove Albion beat Brentford FC 2–0, ending a seven-match winless streak and easing pressure on manager Fabian Hurzeler. Diego Gomez opened the scoring after Ferdi Kadioglu struck the bar, before Danny Welbeck added a second before half-time.
Manchester City can move within two points of leaders Arsenal FC if they beat Newcastle United, with Pep Guardiola’s side benefiting from the leaders’ recent dropped points. Arsenal return to action on Sunday away to rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the north London derby.
