EPL 2024-25: Matchweek 17 Recap

Happy holidays to all, and a happy halfway point of the English Premier League season to everyone who celebrates. While sending you my best wishes, I must sincerely apologize for the delay in this article following the Boxing Day fixtures. With only one day between Matchweek 17 and Matchweek 18 in what was a jam-packed schedule, and with my own travels limiting me to just keeping a close eye on all the action, I wanted to ensure I returned ready to deliver the best possible recap of this thrilling midway point of the season.

It’s incredible to think we’ve been on this journey for 19 weeks, with the excitement only building as the matches keep coming. Given that this week’s article combines Matchweek 17 and 18 recaps along with a Matchweek 19 preview, I’ll keep this intro short. The past two matchweeks brought plenty of shakeups and high-stakes drama, with teams battling relentlessly to establish their positions as we come to the halfway mark.

Liverpool remain in control at the top of the table, but Arsenal and dark horse Nottingham Forest are firmly in the mix, while Chelsea’s recent stumbles have hindered their title challenge. Meanwhile, Manchester United’s struggles persist even under Ruben Amorim, while Wolves, rejuvenated under Vítor Pereira, continue their climb out of the relegation zone.

As always, I’ll break it all down in detail, starting with recaps of the action-packed Matchweeks 17 and 18 before diving into the drama to come in Matchweek 19. Let’s get started!

Aston Villa 2-1 Manchester City

Aston Villa’s incredible home form carried on as they handed Manchester City yet another defeat in a turbulent season for Guardiola’s side. Jhon Duran opened the scoring early, while Morgan Rogers doubled the lead with a solo effort to become the youngest Villa player to score and assist against City in the Premier League. Phil Foden pulled one back late for City, but it wasn’t enough to hold their ongoing struggles, particularly away from home, where they remain winless in their last eight. Villa, on the other hand, are climbing the table with growing momentum.

Brentford 0-2 Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest continue their incredible season, breaking into the top four for the first time in 30 years with a convincing win over Brentford. Ola Aina opened the scoring with a composed finish, and Anthony Elanga sealed the points with a sharp second-half strike. Despite Brentford’s superior possession, Forest’s defensive organization and clinical edge proved the difference. Nuno Espirito Santo’s side have now won three of their last four, with Matz Sels making crucial saves to showcase another clean sheet.

Ipswich Town 0-4 Newcastle United

Newcastle exploded at Portman Road, dismantling Ipswich with a ruthless attacking display. Alexander Isak was the star, netting a hat-trick. Jacob Murphy added a fourth to cap a dominant performance and is looking rejuvenated in these past few match weeks. Ipswich struggled to cope with Newcastle’s pace and precision and remain without a home win this season.

West Ham United 1-1 Brighton & Hove Albion

West Ham and Brighton battled to a hard-fought draw at the London Stadium. Mats Wieffer gave Brighton the lead early in the second half, but Mohammed Kudus struck back for the hosts, finishing from close range after Bowen’s effort was deflected. Both teams had chances to win it late, but the draw means Brighton are now winless in five, while West Ham remain in midtable with inconsistencies holding them back.

Crystal Palace 1-5 Arsenal

Arsenal responded to recent criticism with a ruthless performance at Selhurst Park. Gabriel Jesus scored twice, continuing his excellent record against Crystal Palace, while Havertz, Martinelli, and Rice each got on the scoresheet in a dominant display. Palace briefly leveled through Ismaila Sarr, but the Gunners’ attacking quality overwhelmed them as they controlled possession and created chances at ease. Bukayo Saka’s injury, however, remains a concern as Arsenal look to keep pace in the title race.

Everton 0-0 Chelsea

Chelsea’s eight-game winning streak came to an end at Goodison Park in a goalless draw. Despite dominating possession and creating several chances, Chelsea failed to break through Everton’s disciplined defensive setup. Nicolas Jackson came closest, striking the post late in the second half. Everton, continuing to be carried by Jordan Pickford’s heroics, secured a valuable point in their battle to avoid the drop.

Fulham 0-0 Southampton

Southampton showed renewed defensive organization in a hard-fought draw at Craven Cottage under the watchful eye of new manager Ivan Juric. Fulham, despite ending their 15-match scoring streak, dominated possession but couldn’t break down Southampton’s low block. Both sides shared the points, leaving Southampton rooted to the bottom but encouraged by their improved resilience in the fact that they did not concede a goal.

Leicester City 0-3 Wolverhampton Wanderers

This game for Wolves marked Vítor Pereira’s first game in charge with a commanding win at the King Power Stadium. Guedes, Rodrigo Gomes, and Matheus Cunha scored first-half goals to secure Wolves’ first away clean sheet in 17 matches. Leicester’s defensive issues were exposed repeatedly, leaving them just above the relegation zone and far away from their first game performance under Van Nistelrooy.

Manchester United 0-3 AFC Bournemouth

The struggles at Old Trafford deepened as Manchester United suffered another humiliating defeat, this time at the hands of Bournemouth. Dean Huijsen opened the scoring with a towering header, followed by Justin Kluivert’s penalty and a composed finish from Semenyo to seal the win for the visitors. United’s defensive fragility and lack of creativity left them exposed once again, and they now sit a lowly 13th in the table unable to turn things around despite Ruben Amorim.

Tottenham Hotspur 3-6 Liverpool

Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the Premier League with a thrilling victory in north London in a match that saw nine goals. Mohamed Salah continued his incredible form with two goals, becoming the first player to record double figures in both goals and assists before Christmas in the English Premier League history. Luis Diaz and Szoboszlai also starred in an attacking masterclass that overwhelmed Spurs, despite late goals from Kulusevski and Solanke. Tottenham’s defensive issues were ruthlessly exposed as they couldn’t contain Liverpool’s relentless attacking waves but Ange is sticking to his tactics.

EPL 2024-25: Matchweek 18 Recap

The Premier League’s Boxing Day action did not disappoint, delivering drama and shakeups across the table. Liverpool further cemented their grip at the top, Arsenal closed the gap in second, and Newcastle continued their relentless push for a Champions League spot. Meanwhile, at the other end, Manchester United’s struggles deepened with another defeat, while Southampton and Ipswich remain firmly stuck in the relegation fight.

Manchester City 1-1 Everton

Manchester City’s struggles persisted as they were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by Everton at the Etihad. Bernardo Silva opened the scoring in the 14th minute with a cross-turned-shot deflecting off Branthwaite into the net, giving City an early edge. However, their defensive frailties were exposed yet again when Doucoure’s cross was mishandled by Akanji, allowing Iliman Ndiaye to curl home a stunning equalizer just before halftime. Erling Haaland’s penalty miss proved decisive with Pickford’s save coming up clutch. Despite dominating with 24 shots, City’s inefficiency in front of goal left them vulnerable, and Everton nearly snatched all three points on a late counterattack. Guardiola’s side remains stuck outside the top-six, leaving their title defense hanging by a thread.

AFC Bournemouth 0-0 Crystal Palace

The Vitality Stadium saw a gritty stalemate as Bournemouth and Crystal Palace drew. Bournemouth were the more proactive side, registering 18 shots, but poor finishing from Ouattara and Semenyo cost them a chance to take all three points. Palace, meanwhile, extended their unbeaten away record, with Dean Henderson delivering a standout performance in goal. Ismaila Sarr thought he had broken the deadlock, but his goal was ruled out for offside. Palace’s attack struggled to click, leaving both teams frustrated at missed opportunities. For Bournemouth, the inability to capitalize on their in-game dominance continues to hinder their upward momentum.

Chelsea 1-2 Fulham

Fulham ended a 45-year wait for a victory at Stamford Bridge, stunning Chelsea with a late comeback in dramatic fashion. Cole Palmer gave Chelsea the lead early in the first half with a brilliant solo effort, but the Blues squandered chances to extend their advantage. Missed opportunities from Enzo Fernandez and Marc Cucurella kept Fulham in the contest. Harry Wilson equalized in the 82nd minute with a composed finish before Muniz capitalized on a defensive lapse to score the winner in stoppage time. Leno was impeccable in goal, denying Sancho and Nkunku late on to secure a historic win for Marco Silva’s side.

Newcastle United 3-0 Aston Villa

Newcastle delivered an emphatic performance at St. James’ Park, dismantling Aston Villa in a dominant display. Anthony Gordon set the tone early with a stunning top-corner strike, and Villa’s task became almost impossible when Jhon Duran was sent off for a reckless challenge on Fabian Schar costing him a three-match ban. Newcastle capitalized on their numerical advantage, with Alexander Isak doubling the lead from close range before Joelinton rounded off the scoring in stoppage time, capitilazing on a defensive error. Villa managed just one shot on target, highlighting Newcastle’s total control as they racked up 22 shots in response.

Nottingham Forest 1-0 Tottenham Hotspur

Nottingham Forest climbed to third place with a hard-fought victory over Tottenham Hotspur at the City Ground. Anthony Elanga scored the game’s only goal in the 28th minute, coolly finishing from a perfectly weighted Morgan Gibbs-White pass. Spurs, despite dominating possession, failed to create meaningful chances, with Brennan Johnson unable to convert any of his three efforts on target. Ange Postecoglou’s side ended the game with 10 men after Djed Spence received a second yellow card, capping off a frustrating day for the visitors.

Southampton 0-1 West Ham United

West Ham spoiled Ivan Juric’s home debut as Southampton manager with a narrow yet significant victory at St. Mary’s Stadium. Jarrod Bowen scored the decisive goal midway through the second half, capitalizing on a set-piece scramble to score. Southampton showed flashes of improvement under Juric, creating several chances, but Onuachu’s wastefulness in front of goal proved costly. Despite an encouraging performance, the Saints remain rooted to the bottom of the table. West Ham, meanwhile, demonstrated their resilience to pick up an important three points in their inconsistent season.

Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-0 Manchester United

Wolves deepened Manchester United’s struggled with a commanding victory at Molineux. Bruno Fernandes saw a red card early in the second half, leaving Ruben Amorim’s side exposed. Matheus Cunha scored a sensational Olimpico goal directly from a corner, sending the home crowd into flames. Cunha later assisted Hwang Hee-chan, who calmly finished in stoppage time to seal the win. United managed just 0.44 xG in another lackluster performance, while Wolves climbed out of the relegation zone with their second consecutive win under Vitor Pereira.

Liverpool 3-1 Leicester City

Liverpool overcame an early scare to maintain their lead at the top of the table with a 3-1 victory at Anfield. Leicester capitalized on a defensive error from Andrew Robertson, with Ayew slotting home in the sixth minute to stun the home crowd. However, Cody Gakpo equalized before halftime with a curling strike, and Curtis Jones put Liverpool ahead early in the second half, converting on Mac Allister’s pinpoint cross. Mohamed Salah sealed the win with a composed finish in the 82nd minute, marking his 100th Premier League goal at Anfield. Leicester’s spirited start faded quickly, while Liverpool continued their relentless pursuit of the title.

Brighton & Hove Albion 0-0 Brentford

A scrappy contest at the Amex Stadium ended goalless as Brighton’s winless run now stretches to six matches. Julio Enciso struck the post early on, and Brentford’s Wissa had a goal ruled out for offside, but neither side managed to impose themselves in the second half. For Brentford, defensive resilience earned a vital point on the road, though questions remain about their ability to challenge for European spots.

Arsenal 1-0 Ipswich Town

Arsenal continued their pursuit of Liverpool at the top with a narrow 1-0 victory over Ipswich Town at the Emirates. Kai Havertz scored the game’s only goal in the first half, clinically finishing on Trossard’s cross. Gabriel missed a golden chance to double the lead, heading wide from close range. Ipswich rarely threatened, managing just three shots and an xG of 0.16. Arsenal’s defense remained solid, recording their seventh clean sheet of the season and extending their home clean-sheet streak to four matches.

EPL 2024-25: Matchweek 19 Preview

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2024

Leicester City vs. Manchester City –  9:30 AM

Manchester City’s tumultuous season continues as they visit the King Power Stadium, desperate for a spark to reignite their campaign. Winless in their last four, Guardiola’s side has been plagued by injuries, inconsistency and lackluster performances, most recently in a disappointing draw against Everton. Leicester, meanwhile, have struggled to find rhythm themselves, with their defensive issues leading to a list of losses under Ruud van Nistelrooy after a hot start. With both teams vulnerable, this clash promises to be a crucial test of character. I think City can capitalize on Leicester’s leaky backline and rediscover their form, at least for one match right now as they take this one game at a time.

Prediction: Leicester City 1-2 Manchester City

Crystal Palace vs. Southampton – 10:00 AM

Crystal Palace will look to distance themselves further from the relegation battle as they host bottom-placed Southampton at Selhurst Park. Palace, inspired by recent steady performances, will aim to exploit a Saints side that has struggled to score and adapt even under new management. Onuachu remains a key player for Southampton, but their defensive weaknesses continue to drag them down. I expect Palace’s attacking trio of Mateta, Sarr, and Eze to cause plenty of problems.

Prediction: Crystal Palace 2-0 Southampton

Everton vs. Nottingham Forest – 10:00 AM

Nottingham Forest continue their incredible rise, sitting comfortably in the top four as they visit Goodison Park. Everton, unbeaten in four, have relied on defensive solidity, but their lack of goals remains an issue. Forest’s Elanga and Gibbs-White have been in-form, while Everton will hope Pickford can deliver another inspiring performance to salvage points. With Forest’s momentum, they seem primed to grind out a narrow victory.

Prediction: Everton 0-1 Nottingham Forest

Fulham vs. AFC Bournemouth – 10:00 AM

Two surprise packages of the season collide at Craven Cottage, with both Fulham and Bournemouth looking to solidify their positions in the upper half of the table. Fulham’s impressive win at Stamford Bridge showcased their grit, while Bournemouth’s away form has been great. This is likely to be an entertaining battle, with both sides eager to prove their surprising European ambitions.

Prediction: Fulham 2-2 AFC Bournemouth

Tottenham Hotspur vs. Wolves– 10:00 AM

Spurs face Wolves in what feels like a pivotal fixture for both teams. Tottenham, reeling from recent defeats, must address their defensive weaknesses, while Wolves, revitalized under Vitor Pereira, will aim to capitalize on their opponent’s vulnerabilities. With Cunha and Hwang in fine form and Spurs struggling to find cohesion, Wolves could emerge as the sharper side.

Prediction: Tottenham Hotspur 2-2 Wolverhampton Wanderers

West Ham United vs. Liverpool – 12:15 PM

Liverpool travel to the London Stadium looking to maintain their lead at the top of the table. Slot’s side, in strong form, should fancy their chances against a West Ham team that has been solid but far from their usual form in recent weeks. With Salah, Diaz, and Gakpo all firing, Liverpool’s attack could prove too much for the Hammers, even with their recent improved resilience.

Prediction: West Ham United 1-3 Liverpool

MONDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2024

Aston Villa vs. Brighton & Hove Albion – 2:45 PM

Villa Park hosts a midtable clash between two sides searching for consistency. Villa’s impressive home form, combined with Brighton’s extended winless run, makes the home side favorites. With Jhon Duran suspended, Ollie Watkins steps in, and his excellent record against Brighton, including a hat-trick in last season’s 6-1 win, makes him a key player in this matchup.

Prediction: Aston Villa 2-1 Brighton & Hove Albion

Ipswich Town vs. Chelsea – 2:45 PM

Ipswich face a daunting challenge against a Chelsea side looking to rebound after a shocking loss to Fulham at home. While Ipswich have shown flashes of resilience, their inability to convert chances remains a concern. Chelsea’s attacking firepower, led by Jackson and Palmer, should be enough to win this matchup and keep top four dreams alive rather than a title.

Prediction: Ipswich Town 0-2 Chelsea

Manchester United vs. Newcastle United – 3:00 PM

Struggling Manchester United face high-flying Newcastle in what promises to be a tense encounter. United’s recent poor form has left them hanging in the lower half of the table under Amorim’s management, while Newcastle’s dynamic trio of Isak, Gordon, and Joelinton have powered them into the Champions League places. Newcastle are likely to exploit United’s defensive vulnerabilities and pile further pressure on Amorim and the team, especially with no Bruno Fernandes.

Prediction: Manchester United 1-2 Newcastle United

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2024

Brentford vs. Arsenal – 12:30 PM

Brentford welcome Arsenal to the Gtech Community Stadium in the New Year’s Day fixture. Arsenal, chasing Liverpool in the title race, will need to be at their best with Saka’s absence potentially becoming a factor. Odegaard, Gabriel Jesus and Martinelli should have enough quality to guide the Gunners to a hard-fought away victory.

Prediction: Brentford 1-2 Arsenal