EPL 2024-25: Matchweek 9 Recap

We’ve now left behind nine weeks of Premier League futbol and are approaching Matchweek 10, with the title race heating up and significant changes happening across the league. The biggest news this week is that Erik Ten Hag, after three years with Manchester United, has been sacked, with Ruud Van Nistelrooy stepping in as interim coach. I have some strong opinions on how long the United board and owners delayed this decision, which ultimately came after United’s draw with Fenerbahce in the UEFA Europa League and a 2-1 loss to West Ham United in the Premier League last weekend. United currently sit at 14th, five points below sixth-place Brighton and 12 points behind leaders Manchester City, ranking as the league’s third-lowest scoring team. This makes Van Nistelrooy’s task as challenging as ever, though there are rumors Sporting’s Ruben Amorim could soon take over as head coach, despite United’s morale-boosting 5-2 dismantling of Leicester City in the cup on Wednesday.

Elsewhere, Arsenal and Liverpool’s draw last week benefited Manchester City, who reclaimed the top of the table and remain the only unbeaten team in the Premier League so far. In midweek Carabao Cup matches, some teams gave their younger players opportunities, while clubs like Tottenham fielded strong starting elevens en route to victories. Chelsea, although flying high in the league in fifth place, lost to a Newcastle United side that had been struggling for consistency. This weekend, we’ll also see a top-six rematch between Brighton and Liverpool. Crystal Palace finally secured their first win of the season, while Southampton and Wolves continue to struggle at the bottom of the table with one and two points respectively. Nottingham Forest has established themselves as a solid team this season, currently sitting in seventh place, while Everton, after a poor start to the season, has remained unbeaten in their last five matches.

On the note of our predictions, I correctly predicted three exact scorelines last weekend—Everton 1-1 Fulham, Chelsea 2-1 Newcastle United, and Arsenal 2-2 Liverpool—along with two correct winner predictions with Manchester City and Brentford. I recently received a suggestion to keep a running tally of my predictions for the season, so as I compile that data, I’ll offer a full summary in Matchday 10’s article rather than the usual weekly updates. Be aware of potential rotations this weekend as teams are coming off midweek Carabao Cup clashes, and injuries are starting to accumulate, with Tottenham’s Micky Van de Ven and Manchester City’s Savinho being notable recent losses. Without further ado, I present to you the Matchweek 9 recap and Matchweek 10 preview of the English Premier League.

Leicester City 1-3 Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest’s win over Leicester demonstrated their ability to capitalize on defensive errors, with Wood scoring twice in the second half. Leicester’s defense looked fragile under pressure, particularly with Faes’ failed clearance proving costly. Forest’s shot creation and big chances underscored their superiority, moving them up the table and highlighting Leicester’s pressing need for a more solid defensive approach, as they have conceded the third-most goals this season.

Aston Villa 1-1 Bournemouth

Aston Villa seemed set for three points, but Bournemouth salvaged a last-minute draw through Evanilson. Villa’s left side, orchestrated by Tielemans and Ramsey, drove much of their attacking play, with Watkins repeatedly threatening but being denied by a strong Travers in goal. Bournemouth’s defensive resilience paid off, as Evanilson’s stoppage-time strike ensured a valuable point in a challenging away fixture.

Brentford 4-3 Ipswich Town

In a thrilling end-to-end match, Brentford edged out Ipswich. Ipswich initially took the lead with quickfire goals from Szmodics and Hirst, but Wissa responded, scoring and forcing an own goal that shifted momentum before halftime. Mbeumo’s added-time penalty clinched the win, though Brentford’s inability to control matches for extended stretches remains a challenge. Ipswich fought hard but ultimately left with nothing.

Brighton & Hove Albion 2-2 Wolverhampton Wanderers

A late comeback from Wolves stole the show, overturning a 2-0 deficit and ending Brighton’s hopes for a clean win. Brighton, led by goals from Welbeck and Ferguson, seemed secure until a lapse in the final minutes allowed Ait Nouri and Cunha to equalize. Wolves’ first-half defensive setup shifted effectively, and their late pressure paid off, showcasing Brighton’s struggles with game management in crucial moments.

Manchester City 1-0 Southampton

City extended their unbeaten streak, dominating with 22 shots and four big chances, though the 1-0 scoreline flattered Southampton. Haaland’s fifth-minute goal was all City needed, but missed opportunities—including an uncharacteristic lapse from Haaland—left the door open. Savinho’s creativity shone, earning Guardiola’s praise, while Southampton’s best effort struck the woodwork. This match highlights City’s attacking depth but occasional inefficiency in the final third.

Everton 1-1 Fulham

An intense clash saw Everton snatch a point with Beto’s stoppage-time equalizer. Fulham’s Iwobi, returning to Goodison Park, opened the scoring, capitalizing on Everton’s defensive gaps. Despite Everton’s recent unbeaten run, their defensive solidity wavered, with Fulham looking sharper throughout. Beto’s late impact saved Everton’s blushes but highlighted their struggles to lock down games.

Chelsea 2-1 Newcastle United

Chelsea edged out Newcastle, with Cole Palmer shining once again. Palmer’s tactical shift to the left exposed gaps in Newcastle’s midfield, directly contributing to Jackson’s opener. Newcastle’s defense, particularly Burn, struggled to contain Chelsea’s movement, and although they created chances, Palmer remained pivotal. A late goal from Newcastle provided a rare open-play highlight, but Chelsea’s defense still looked shaky despite James’ strong showing.

Crystal Palace 1-0 Tottenham Hotspur

Crystal Palace claimed a deserved 1-0 victory over an offensively flat Spurs side. Mateta’s first-half goal, set up by Eze’s superb flick, proved decisive, securing Palace’s first league win of the season. Tottenham’s attack, missing Son, struggled to create quality chances, with even Kulusevski and Van de Ven unable to convert. Palace’s defense held strong, exposing tactical rigidity in Postecoglou’s side.

West Ham United 2-1 Manchester United

Chaos reigned as West Ham clinched a 2-1 win with Bowen’s late penalty. Casemiro’s equalizer briefly invigorated United, but their inability to capitalize on chances—from Rashford playing too deep to Garnacho’s missed conversions—was glaring. West Ham’s defensive issues were apparent but did not cost them, with Summerville and Antonio proving reliable creators.

Arsenal 2-2 Liverpool

A fair result but one that Arsenal might rue given the flow of play. Saka’s early goal set the tone, roasting Robertson before Liverpool’s defense found its footing. Partey’s inverted role controlled the midfield, pushing Liverpool’s forwards deep and isolating Salah. Injuries to Gabriel and Timber proved costly, with Salah striking late. Arsenal’s inability to close out the match exposed a vulnerability, leaving them questioning the decision to disallow Havertz’s would-be winner in the final minutes.

EPL 2024-25: Matchweek 10 Preview

Saturday, November 2, 2024

Newcastle United vs Arsenal – 8:30 AM

Newcastle heads into this match on the back of a frustrating 2-1 loss to Chelsea, continuing a challenging stretch with just one win in their last six outings. Defensive injuries have left Newcastle vulnerable, especially with the added strain of midweek games, and they’ve struggled to convert their home advantage—having scored more than two goals at St. James’ Park only once since mid-September. Arsenal, meanwhile, displayed resilience and control in their recent 2-2 draw against Liverpool, with strong performances from Saka in attack and Partey in midfield highlighting their ability to grind out results in difficult away fixtures. Given Newcastle’s attacking struggles, Arsenal’s structured approach and adaptability should yield rewards.

Prediction: Newcastle United 1-2 Arsenal

Bournemouth vs Manchester City – 11:00 AM

Manchester City reclaimed the top spot with a narrow 1-0 win over Southampton, though their performance left something to be desired as they struggled to capitalize fully on their opportunities. In contrast, Bournemouth demonstrated grit and defensive organization by edging out a last-minute equalizer against Aston Villa. Known for their counter-attacking setup, Bournemouth could create some discomfort for City’s occasionally faltering defense, especially without Rodri and De Bruyne. However, City’s historical dominance over Bournemouth, winning 14 consecutive league matches against them, highlights their control over this matchup. While Bournemouth’s resilience might keep it close initially, City’s quality should prevail.

Prediction: Bournemouth 1-3 Manchester City

Ipswich Town vs Leicester City – 11:00 AM

Ipswich comes into this match after a thrilling yet disappointing 4-3 loss to Brentford, which showcased their attacking prowess but also revealed defensive vulnerabilities. Leicester also suffered a setback, conceding three goals to Nottingham Forest. Both teams are in need of points, making this a critical relegation six-pointer. Leicester has shown slightly more consistency, particularly in capitalizing on defensive lapses, giving them a slight edge. However, Ipswich’s home form, coupled with their persistent goal-scoring threats, could make this a tightly contested encounter.

Prediction: Ipswich Town 1-2 Leicester City

Liverpool vs Brighton & Hove Albion – 11:00 AM

Liverpool faces Brighton again just days after their EFL Cup clash. Brighton’s defense remains in question, with absences such as Dunk and Webster leaving them exposed, especially against a Liverpool side spearheaded by Salah and an in-form Gakpo. Though Brighton has shown they can be dangerous, their inconsistencies, paired with the Anfield advantage, tilt the scales in Liverpool’s favor. With both teams capable of scoring prolifically, this could become a high-energy contest.

Prediction: Liverpool 3-1 Brighton & Hove Albion

Nottingham Forest vs West Ham United – 11:00 AM

Nottingham Forest enters this match with momentum, having won two of their last three matches and currently sitting in 7th place. Chris Wood’s impressive form, coupled with Forest’s improved defense and strong home support, could prove challenging for West Ham, whose recent 2-1 win over Manchester United stands out in an otherwise defensively inconsistent season. Given Forest’s home resilience and consistent scoring, they appear to have the upper hand in this encounter.

Prediction: Nottingham Forest 2-1 West Ham United

Southampton vs Everton – 11:00 AM

Southampton narrowly escaped a heavier loss to City last week, yet their defensive vulnerabilities remain a significant concern. Everton, unbeaten in their last six games, have relied on defensive stability and timely goals, such as Beto’s recent equalizer, to propel them forward. Southampton’s midweek match could lead to rotation, giving Everton an extra advantage to secure a win in a closely contested game.

Prediction: Southampton 0-1 Everton

Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Crystal Palace – 1:30 PM

Wolves come into this match after a spirited comeback against Brighton, while Palace’s disciplined victory over Tottenham should boost their confidence. Wolves’ defensive inconsistencies and Palace’s recent goal-scoring challenges suggest that both teams may struggle to assert dominance here. With neither team yet to hit double figures in points this season, a cautious and balanced game seems likely.

Prediction: Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-1 Crystal Palace

Sunday, November 3, 2024

Tottenham Hotspur vs Aston Villa – 9:00 AM

Both Tottenham and Aston Villa approach this match with a point to prove. Spurs aim to recover from a narrow 1-0 loss to Crystal Palace, while Villa enters with solid form and a fully fit squad. Villa has proven formidable at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, winning three of their last four visits (including one in which I was present for last November), and their consistency in both league and European competitions is noteworthy. With Son potentially sidelined again, Spurs might find it challenging to break through Villa’s organized defense. Expect a close match, with Villa’s steadier form giving them the slight edge in my eyes.

Prediction: Tottenham Hotspur 2-2 Aston Villa

Manchester United vs Chelsea – 11:30 AM

Manchester United will face Chelsea under the interim management of Ruud Van Nistelrooy after Erik ten Hag’s recent departure, adding an element of unpredictability. Chelsea, fresh off a hard-fought 2-1 win over Newcastle, shows signs of improvement and stability under Maresca, especially with players like Cole Palmer and Nicholas Jackson in peak form. United’s defense will need to be especially sharp against Chelsea’s dynamic attack. With both teams struggling with inconsistency, this should be a tight contest, though Chelsea’s momentum and organizational edge may give them the advantage.

Prediction: Manchester United 1-2 Chelsea

Monday, November 4, 2024

Fulham vs Brentford – 3:00 PM

Fulham enters this West London Derby after a frustrating 1-1 draw with Everton, having conceded a late equalizer. Their inconsistency and defensive lapses remain problematic. Brentford, however, arrives on a high after a dramatic 4-3 win over Ipswich, which showcased resilience but also highlighted defensive vulnerabilities. With both teams prone to defensive inconsistencies, this could be an open, high-energy affair, potentially leading to an exciting back-and-forth.

Prediction: Fulham 2-2 Brentford