The 2024/25 English Premier League (EPL) season is set to kick off, and fans across Nigeria are eagerly anticipating the return of their favorite teams after a brief summer break.
The season opener between Manchester United and Fulham on Friday night promises to set the tone for an exciting weekend of football.
Star Match: Chelsea vs Manchester City
This clash between Chelsea and Manchester City is poised to be the highlight of the opening weekend. However, given the recent turmoil at Stamford Bridge, it could end up being a one-sided affair. Chelsea’s new manager, Enzo Maresca, faces an uphill battle after a poor preseason and a flurry of untested young signings. The defense looks shaky, and the team’s overall performance has left fans feeling uncertain.
On the other hand, Manchester City, fresh off their fourth consecutive EPL title, have maintained their formidable squad, with only Julian Alvarez departing. Pep Guardiola’s side is known for their consistency and dominance, particularly against Chelsea, whom they have beaten in their last nine encounters. Erling Haaland, City’s goal machine, is expected to exploit Chelsea’s defensive frailties and make a statement on the opening weekend.
Interesting Stats of the Week
- Liverpool vs Ipswich Town: Liverpool have never lost an EPL match at Ipswich’s Portman Road, with three wins and two draws. They have also been unbeaten on the opening day for the past ten years. Their last meeting with Ipswich ended in a 5-0 thrashing.
- Arsenal vs Wolves: Arsenal have won their last six EPL encounters against Wolves. Wolves have managed just one win in their last 13 trips to Arsenal. The Gunners have scored in their last 33 meetings with Wolves.
- Newcastle United vs Southampton: Newcastle have won their last three matches against Southampton and have seven victories in their last nine league meetings. Southampton have only one win in their last 18 visits to Newcastle.
- West Ham United vs Aston Villa: West Ham are unbeaten in 11 of their last 12 EPL matches against Aston Villa. Villa, meanwhile, are winless in their last nine league visits to West Ham.
- Chelsea vs Manchester City: Chelsea have failed to win against Man City in their last six league meetings. City have an impressive record of winning 12 of their last 13 opening day fixtures.
Players to Watch
- Mohamed Salah (Liverpool): Despite a “below-par” season by his standards, Salah managed 18 goals and 10 assists in 32 EPL matches last season. He looked sharp in preseason and will be eager to start strong.
- Erling Haaland (Manchester City): Haaland’s goal-scoring record in the EPL is staggering, with 63 goals in 66 matches. He has won the golden boot in both of his seasons in England and could have a field day against Chelsea’s uncertain defense.
- Dominic Solanke (Tottenham): Recently signed for £65 million, Solanke is expected to make an immediate impact. The former Chelsea academy graduate has a lot to prove in his new club.
Week 1 Predictions
- Manchester United vs Fulham – Over 2.5 Goals
- Ipswich Town vs Liverpool – Away Team to Score More Than Two Goals
- Arsenal vs Wolves – 2-1
- Everton vs Brighton – Both Teams to Score
- Newcastle United vs Southampton – Home Team to Win
- Nottingham Forest vs Bournemouth – Both Teams to Score
- West Ham vs Aston Villa – Both Teams to Score
- Brentford vs Crystal Palace – 1-1
- Chelsea vs Man City – 1-3
- Leicester City vs Tottenham – 1-3
This opening weekend is sure to be packed with excitement, drama, and plenty of goals as the Premier League returns to thrill fans worldwide.
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