EPL 2024-25: Matchweek 8 Recap

After a long international break, the English Premier League returned in it’s full glory and, frankly, did not disappoint one bit. West Ham, after their high-flying form just before the break, were dismantled by Tottenham in a five-goal thriller. Aston Villa continues to find ways to win, while Manchester United returned to winning ways. Meanwhile, Newcastle struggles to find form, Southampton and Leicester delivered a five-goal comeback thriller, Arsenal lost to Bournemouth without starboy Saka, and Liverpool overcame high-flying Chelsea at home.

As things stand, Liverpool are top of the table with 21 points, no draws, and only one loss, while Manchester City is in second place with 20 points and remains the only undefeated team, with two draws holding them back. The rest of the top six includes Arsenal, Aston Villa, Brighton, and Chelsea. Tottenham is climbing toward the top six, followed by a surprising addition in Nottingham Forest, while Crystal Palace, Southampton, and Wolves occupy the relegation zone with three, one, and one points, respectively.

The teams at the top will want to maintain their strength amidst the busy European competition schedule, while those in the middle of the table are fighting for consistency. While Everton has managed to escape the relegation zone, Crystal Palace’s drop and inability to turn things around continue to be worrisome.

Last week, we predicted three exact scorelines correctly: Manchester United 2-1 Brentford, Liverpool 2-1 Chelsea, and Nottingham Forest 1-0 Crystal Palace. Additionally, we predicted two correct results with Tottenham and Manchester City victories. After a challenging week, things turned around on this front, but there’s still plenty of action and drama ahead. Without further ado, here is your weekly roundup.

Tottenham Hotspur 4 – 1 West Ham United

Spurs were in ruthless form, dismantling a West Ham side that simply couldn’t cope with their relentless press and attacking fluidity. Heung-min Son was everywhere, finding spaces between the lines and punishing West Ham’s high line. Maddison’s departure before halftime may have raised concerns, but it didn’t slow Spurs down. With Kulusevski also playing a key role, West Ham’s defense had no answer to the pace and creativity of Tottenham’s front line. West Ham, despite moments of pressure, were simply outclassed, and their inability to adjust tactically in the second half was costly.

Fulham 1 – 3 Aston Villa

Fulham started strong, grabbing an early lead through Raul Jimenez, who has been on a tear, but Villa’s resilience quickly turned the tide. The turning point came with Fulham’s missed penalty, a wasted chance that allowed Villa to stay in the game. Ollie Watkins was the standout, making constant runs in behind and exploiting Fulham’s disorganized backline. Villa’s dominance in the second half was evident, as they capitalized on Fulham’s growing frustration. The missed opportunity and defensive mistakes from Fulham became their undoing, with Villa taking control of the match as it wore on.

Manchester United 2 – 1 Brentford

A late show from Alejandro Garnacho saw Manchester United scrape a much-needed 2-1 win over Brentford. For most of the match, United struggled to find their rhythm, often looking disjointed in possession. Brentford, though solid defensively, lacked the killer instinct to put the game to bed when they had the lead. United’s defense, still shaky, gave Brentford chances, but the visitors couldn’t convert. Garnacho’s moment of brilliance saved United’s blushes and secured the win, but questions about their consistency remain.

Newcastle United 0 – 1 Brighton & Hove Albion

Brighton’s trip to St. James’ Park saw them put on a masterclass in defensive organization and counter-attacking efficiency. Despite Newcastle dominating possession, they couldn’t break down Brighton’s compact defense. Danny Welbeck’s goal on the break came from a well-worked move, capitalizing on Newcastle’s high line and slow transitions. Newcastle’s inability to convert their dominance and strength into goals, coupled with Brighton’s resilience, meant the visitors took home all three points in what was a scrappy but tactically disciplined performance.

Southampton 2 – 3 Leicester City

Leicester City’s 3-2 win at Southampton was a thrilling contest defined by Leicester’s persistence and Southampton’s defensive collapse. Southampton had control of the game with a two-goal lead, but after going down to 10 men, their structure fell apart. Leicester capitalized, with Fatawu’s introduction off the bench turning the tide. His creativity and energy in the final third overwhelmed a tiring Southampton defense. The Foxes’ attacking intent, especially after the red card, proved too much for the Saints, who were left ruing missed opportunities and a loss of composure.

Ipswich Town 0 – 2 Everton

Everton’s organized defense and clinical approach in front of goal saw them take a comfortable 2-0 win over Ipswich. Ipswich struggled to create meaningful chances, managing only two shots throughout the match. Dominic Calvert-Lewin was a constant threat for Ipswich’s backline, drawing defenders out of position and creating space for Everton’s midfield, particularly Dwight McNeil, to exploit. Mykolenko and Pickford shone defensively, with Pickford making key saves to keep Everton’s clean sheet intact. Ipswich’s lack of cutting edge was evident, as they couldn’t break down a resolute Everton defense, who have shown tremendous growth in recent weeks compared to their start of the season.

AFC Bournemouth 2 – 0 Arsenal

Bournemouth took full advantage of Arsenal’s early red card, pulling off a shock 2-0 win. Despite Arsenal’s superior possession, they lacked the cutting edge in the final third, and once they were down to 10 men, Bournemouth’s energy took over. Semenyo led the charge with his direct running and pressing, causing constant headaches for Arsenal’s depleted backline. Bournemouth’s clinical finishing, combined with their high-energy pressing, allowed them to pick up a significant result, while Arsenal’s lack of discipline as well as injuries to key players like Bukayo Saka left them exposed.

Wolverhampton Wanderers 1 – 2 Manchester City

City’s control of possession was once again on display, but Wolves exposed their defensive frailties on the counter-attack. Despite City’s dominance in the midfield, it was Gvardiol’s right-footed effort that brought them to a tie, and John Stones’ late header sealed the win. Wolves took advantage of City’s occasional lapses in concentration, but their inability to maintain pressure for extended periods allowed City to dictate the tempo. Haaland was unusually quiet, but Stones’ influence in defense as well as the midfield and Gvardiol’s contributions in both ends kept City in control for most of the match.

Liverpool 2 – 1 Chelsea

Liverpool edged a hard-fought contest against Chelsea, with Salah’s penalty and Curtis Jones’ timely strike proving decisive. Chelsea had their moments, particularly with Jackson’s equalizer, but their defensive lapses, particularly in dealing with Liverpool’s pressing game, cost them. Liverpool’s intensity off the ball was key to stifling Chelsea’s build-up play, and their ability to win back possession high up the pitch allowed them to create numerous chances. Chelsea’s inability to handle the pressure led to crucial mistakes at the back, which was finally starting to look like a cohesive and consistent unit.

Nottingham Forest 1 – 0 Crystal Palace

A solitary goal from Chris Wood was enough for Nottingham Forest to secure a hard-fought 1-0 win over Crystal Palace. Forest’s defensive organization was key, as Palace struggled to create any meaningful chances throughout the match. Palace’s lack of creativity in the final third was evident, with Eze and Nketiah unable to spark the attack. Forest, while not dominant, made the most of their few chances and were defensively solid, holding off a lackluster, struggling Palace side for the win.

EPL 2024-25: Matchweek 9 Preview

Friday, October 25th

Leicester City vs Nottingham Forest – 3:00 PM EST

Leicester will be looking to build on their thrilling comeback win over Southampton, showing resilience after being two goals down. Fatawu’s form could be pivotal, with his creativity key to unlocking a defensively sound Forest side that comes off a disciplined 1-0 win over Crystal Palace and are sitting at eight place. Forest’s backline will once again be crucial, relying on their compact shape to stifle Leicester’s attack. Leicester’s home form and Fatawu’s influence could make the difference, but Forest’s counter-attacking threat, led by Chris Wood, will keep them dangerous.

Prediction: Leicester City 2-1 Nottingham Forest

Saturday, October 26th

Aston Villa vs Bournemouth – 10:00 AM EST

Villa’s attacking threat continues to grow, with Ollie Watkins leading the line in impressive fashion, and Duran also in great form, as displayed in their Champions League triumph. They’ll face a Bournemouth side flying high after a shock win over Arsenal, capitalizing on the Gunners’ red card. Villa’s defense will need to stay sharp, as Bournemouth’s counter-attacking speed, especially through Semenyo, could cause problems. Villa’s ability to control possession and stretch Bournemouth’s defense will be key, but both sides will have to guard against complacency after recent successes.

Prediction: Aston Villa 3-1 Bournemouth

Brentford vs Ipswich Town – 10:00 AM EST

Brentford will look to bounce back from their narrow defeat to Manchester United, and Ipswich’s ongoing struggles, particularly in attack, present an ideal opportunity. Brentford’s strength from set-pieces and ability to break down deep defenses will be tested against Ipswich’s backline, which has shown vulnerability. Ipswich’s lack of cutting edge in front of goal, except for maybe Liam Delap, combined with Brentford’s resilience at home, makes this a tough ask for the visitors.

Prediction: Brentford 2-0 Ipswich Town

Brighton & Hove Albion vs Wolverhampton Wanderers – 10:00 AM EST

Brighton will be buoyed by their tactical masterclass against Newcastle, and they’ll aim to continue their strong form against a Wolves side struggling for consistency. Brighton’s ability to control possession and create chances from wide areas will stretch Wolves, who have shown vulnerability to quick transitions. Wolves’ counter-attacking game, led by their pace on the wings and in-form Strand Larsen could trouble Brighton, but the Seagulls’ defensive discipline gives them the edge.

Prediction: Brighton 2-1 Wolves

Manchester City vs Southampton – 10:00 AM EST

Manchester City will be aiming to iron out the defensive lapses they showed against Wolves, and a struggling Southampton side could provide the perfect opponent for a statement win. Haaland, fresh off his Champions League heroics, will be the focal point as City’s relentless attack looks to exploit Southampton’s fragile backline. City’s midfield depth, and especially the rise in quality play by Matheus Nunes, through their control of possession, should see them dominate from start to finish.

Prediction: Manchester City 3-0 Southampton

Everton vs Fulham – 12:30 PM EST

Everton’s resurgence continues, with their defensive structure becoming a hallmark under Sean Dyche. Calvert-Lewin’s presence up front will be key, especially against a Fulham side that has been inconsistent but capable of moments of brilliance. Fulham’s unpredictable form means they can’t be ruled out, and Raul Jimenez will likely continue scoring goals, but Everton’s defensive discipline and ability to take their chances should make this an unpredictable match.

Prediction: Everton 1-1 Fulham

Sunday, October 27th

Chelsea vs Newcastle United – 10:00 AM EST

Chelsea’s recent form has been a mixed bag, but their home advantage and attacking talent, particularly through Palmer and Jackson, will be crucial against a Newcastle side that has struggled for consistency. Newcastle will need to be at their best defensively, as Chelsea’s high press could force mistakes. In what could be a close contest, Chelsea’s edge at Stamford Bridge might just be enough to secure the points.

Prediction: Chelsea 2-1 Newcastle United

Crystal Palace vs Tottenham Hotspur – 10:00 AM EST

Crystal Palace’s attacking struggles, as highlighted by their lack of goals this season and their inability to create clear chances against Forest, are a concern as they face an in-form Spurs side. With Heung-min Son, Kulusevski and James Maddison pulling the strings, Tottenham will look to dominate possession and expose the spaces behind Palace’s defense. Palace will need a disciplined defensive display, but Spurs’ attacking power will likely prove too much.

Prediction: Tottenham 3-1 Crystal Palace

West Ham United vs Manchester United – 10:00 AM EST

West Ham’s defensive frailties were exposed in their heavy defeat to Spurs, and they’ll need to regroup quickly as they face a Manchester United side showing glimpses of improvement. Garnacho and Rashford’s pace on the counter could cause serious problems for West Ham’s backline, while the Hammers will look to Antonio and Paqueta to create their own chances in the absence of Kudus. United’s quality in attack and a desire to ride their winning momentum from last week might give them the edge against a West Ham side that was dismantled last week in what promises to be an open game.

Prediction: Manchester United 2-1 West Ham United

Arsenal vs Liverpool – 12:30 PM EST

This matchup has all the ingredients of a classic, with both Arsenal and Liverpool needing a win to maintain their momentum and charge for the top of the table. Arsenal will want to bounce back after a shock defeat to Bournemouth, while Liverpool, high on confidence after their victory over Chelsea, will aim to press high and exploit Arsenal’s defensive weaknesses. Both teams are coming off wins in their Champions League clashes during the week. Both sides possess plenty of attacking firepower, making this an end-to-end contest with goals on both sides. The match could be decided by which team handles the high-pressure moments better.

Prediction: Arsenal 2-2 Liverpool