Fulham's Samuel Chukwueze, left, and Aston Villa's John McGinn in action during their English Premier League soccer match between Fulham and Aston Villa in London. AP
Fourth-placed Villa could have leapfrogged Manchester United in third with a point at Craven Cottage. But Ryan Sessegnon's 43rd-minute goal sealed the win for Fulham.
Villa could drop to fifth by the end of the day if Liverpool wins at home against Crystal Palace.
The top five teams qualify for next season's Champions League.
Sessegnon scored from close range after goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez had saved Sasa Lukic's header.
Arsenal plays Newcastle later Saturday with the chance to move back to the top ahead of Manchester City.
City plays in the semifinals of the FA Cup against second division Southampton at Wembley Stadium.
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