EPL 2024/25: Matchweek 4 Recap

Another week, another set of exciting matches, and plenty of surprises. I didn’t get any score predictions correct, which was quite disappointing, to be honest. However, I did predict the correct winners, losers, or draws in 6 out of 10 matches, which was my only saving grace when it came to last week’s predictions. My top plays went alright, but if I said Liverpool and Tottenham didn’t cost me some money, I’d be lying.

This week’s recap and preview are combined, as we don’t have another international break to split them up. I believe this new method will serve us well as we move forward. One article will review how the previous matchweek went, covering scores, key players, and how teams and managers approached the matches. Immediately after, we’ll dive into the next matchweek, sharing what I think will happen and finishing with a prediction for each matchup. Hopefully, my success rate improves moving forward!

That said, Matchweek 4 in the English Premier League delivered another round of drama, tactical battles, and impressive individual performances. Here’s a breakdown of the key highlights from each match, followed by what to expect from these teams this weekend.

Southampton 0-3 Manchester United

Southampton started strongly, dominating the opening 25 minutes and creating multiple chances. They should have been up 2-0 early on, but a missed penalty completely shifted the momentum. Two minutes later, Manchester United capitalized, scoring and changing the match’s complexion.

Despite their 3-0 victory, United’s defense wasn’t as solid as the scoreline suggests. Southampton threatened throughout the match, creating several dangerous attacks, and United were lucky to escape with a clean sheet despite Mathijs De Ligt’s resurgence. Bruno Fernandes’ leadership helped rally the team after a shaky start, and this win surely shifted momentum for Manchester United. However, inconsistency in their overall play remains a concern, as they have only shown this type of performance against a newly relegated Southampton side this season.

Brighton 0-0 Ipswich

Brighton dominated possession but failed to convert their chances, leaving fans—and myself—frustrated. They took 21 shots to Ipswich’s six, but most of Brighton’s efforts were from distance, making it easier for Ipswich to defend.

Ipswich, despite being on the back foot for most of the match, showed resilience. Goalkeeper Arijanet Muric had a standout performance, and full-back Axel Tuanzebe effectively neutralized Brighton’s Kaoru Mitoma. Ipswich executed a low block, frustrating Brighton’s attempts to penetrate centrally. Brighton’s inability to break down Ipswich’s defensive setup left them without a win in what was more of a tactical chess match than an open contest. While Brighton may regret not converting their chances, Liam Delap’s shot hitting the woodwork could have given Ipswich the lead and opened up the scoring for both sides. Fabian Hurzeler will need to rethink his attacking strategy against teams that close off their preferred attacking spaces, as this draw was highly unexpected given Brighton’s recent form.

Crystal Palace 2-2 Leicester

Crystal Palace and Leicester played out an entertaining 2-2 draw. Jean-Philippe Mateta continued his strong form from last season, nearly securing a hat-trick. Despite high hopes for a bounce-back win, Palace continues to disappoint early in the season after a strong finish last year.

Palace’s defense remained shaky throughout, with set-piece marking being a noticeable weakness. Despite their attacking prowess, defensive vulnerabilities are a major concern, especially with Dean Henderson in goal, as he is not playing up to his usual standards. Leicester, meanwhile, remains defensively fragile, making them vulnerable to opponents in fast attacks. Wilfred Ndidi was instrumental in controlling the midfield for Leicester, and Jamie Vardy continues to score, but their backline remains a major concern. This match, while exciting, highlighted the defensive frailties of both teams, and a draw makes it harder to predict what to expect from them next week.

Fulham 1-1 West Ham

Fulham dominated this tight affair against West Ham. Emile Smith Rowe stood out with a brilliant assist to set up Raúl Jiménez’s goal. However, concerns over ESR’s fitness persist, as he was subbed off after 65 minutes, raising questions about his ability to stay fit throughout the season, which has proven to be crucial in their early form and success.

West Ham’s attack struggled to break down Fulham’s defense for most of the match. Jarrod Bowen, playing as a No. 9 after Michail Antonio was subbed off, delivered a strong performance, especially on set pieces. Fulham’s resolute defense limited West Ham’s space in the final third, forcing them to rely on wide deliveries and set pieces for chances. West Ham managed to grab a late equalizer, but they were largely outplayed by a resilient Fulham side. On paper, Fulham currently looks stronger than West Ham, who desperately needed a win to shift momentum in their favor.

Liverpool 0-1 Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest secured a historic win at Anfield, their first in 55 years, by frustrating Liverpool with a tactically astute performance. Forest’s full-backs, Ola Aina and Álex Moreno, were key in keeping Liverpool’s wide players quiet, with Aina stifling Luis Díaz and Moreno limiting Mohamed Salah, who received most of the backlash for last week’s performance.

Despite Liverpool’s dominance in possession, Forest’s defensive organization was superb, particularly in the midfield battle. Trent Alexander-Arnold created several chances, but Forest’s discipline held firm, allowing them to snatch a victory with a second-half goal. Callum Hudson-Odoi provided the cutting edge for Forest with a well-taken strike, while Liverpool’s vulnerability on the counter-attack was once again exposed, especially when Connor Bradley took over at right-back. This result reflects Forest’s strong start to the league, while Liverpool, after a high-flying beginning to the season, may benefit from this loss as a reality check moving forward.

Manchester City 2-1 Brentford

Brentford began the match at a blistering pace, pressing Manchester City high and disrupting their rhythm. Brentford could have been 3-0 up within the first 10 minutes, but missed chances—including Bryan Mbeumo’s close-range header—left them ruing opportunities.

Despite Brentford’s early dominance, Erling Haaland’s clinical finishing once again proved the difference. Haaland scored twice to secure the win for City and could have easily had a hat-trick if not for some heroics in Brentford’s defense. Brentford, though beaten, showed they can trouble the league’s best with their high-pressing, direct style of play. City’s defense looked vulnerable at times, but the team’s brilliance as a whole covered those cracks. As key players return to form and to the starting lineup, City will look to continue building on this early momentum.

Aston Villa 3-2 Everton

This match was a game of two halves, with Everton dominating the opening 35 minutes and creating several chances. Despite going 2-0 down, Aston Villa never looked out of control. Ollie Watkins led Villa’s charge, scoring for the first time this season, and Jhon Durán came off the bench to score the winner in spectacular fashion.

Watkins and Durán caused Everton’s defense plenty of problems, and despite Everton’s bright start, their defensive vulnerabilities were once again exposed. Villa’s superior attacking quality, especially from set pieces, saw them come out on top in this thrilling encounter. Jordan Pickford’s heroics in goal kept Everton in the match longer than they deserved, but Everton’s second consecutive loss after holding a 2-0 lead highlights their inability to see out matches, putting them in an even tougher spot moving forward.

Bournemouth 0-1 Chelsea

Bournemouth frustrated Chelsea with a disciplined defensive performance, particularly in the first half. Marcus Tavernier was excellent, dominating Axel Disasi and creating several chances. Despite their resilience, Bournemouth couldn’t find the back of the net and missed a penalty in the process through new signing Evanilson.

For Chelsea, Jadon Sancho’s introduction at halftime changed the match. He provided the assist for Christopher Nkunku’s winner and showed flashes of his quality. However, Chelsea still looked unconvincing as a unit, especially in defense. Chelsea’s reliance on individual brilliance rather than cohesive team play could become a concern moving forward, particularly since they haven’t locked down a consistent starting defensive unit, with various players showing inconsistency so far this season. They remain fragile and unpredictable, though an away win and three points at Bournemouth will likely cover all they care about for now in this young season.

Tottenham Hotspur 0-1 Arsenal

The North London derby saw Arsenal claim a narrow 1-0 victory in a match filled with intensity and end-to-end action. Both teams created chances, but Arsenal’s defense, led by Gabriel and William Saliba, held firm. I had strongly believed that Tottenham, playing at home against an Arsenal side missing Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard, would find a way to win, but a lack of urgency in the final half of the match, as well as poor delivery decisions in the box, cost them the game.

Bukayo Saka was once again Arsenal’s standout player, while Spurs controlled possession but lacked the finishing touch. Son Heung-min, playing out wide, was largely ineffective, and Spurs’ vulnerability at set-pieces was once again exposed, allowing Arsenal to capitalize. Dominik Solanke returned to action but was ineffective throughout the match. Mikel Arteta’s side showed resilience, but questions remain about their consistency when facing top-six sides away from home, especially with Ødegaard likely to be out for some time.

Wolves 1-2 Newcastle

Wolves put up a valiant fight against Newcastle but were undone by two moments of individual brilliance. Newcastle, who have struggled to replicate last season’s attacking sharpness, were frustrated for much of the game but managed to secure the win through Fabian Schär and Harvey Barnes.

Wolves’ defense, led by Craig Dawson, held firm for large portions of the match but couldn’t prevent Newcastle’s quality from shining through in the end. Isak’s injury at halftime added to Newcastle’s frustrations, but their resilience saw them through to victory. Wolves may feel hard done by after a solid performance, but Newcastle’s ability to grind out results continues to show their top-four credentials.

EPL 2024/25: Matchweek 5 Preview

Saturday, 21st September 2024

West Ham vs Chelsea – 7:30 AM EST

The weekend kicks off with a tightly contested London derby as West Ham hosts Chelsea. Chelsea is coming off a victory against Bournemouth, while West Ham salvaged a draw against Fulham with a last-minute equalizer despite being largely ineffective for much of the match. West Ham has fallen short of expectations so far this season, and this home fixture provides an opportunity to turn the tide against an inconsistent Chelsea side. Chelsea, while dangerous in attack, has struggled to break down defensively solid teams, particularly when playing away. The Hammers will hope their disciplined defensive setup can frustrate Chelsea and allow them to counter effectively. Chelsea’s Jadon Sancho, influential in their last match, could provide a spark if West Ham sits deep. Expect a tight game where West Ham could edge it if they frustrate Chelsea’s attack and create their own opportunities.

Prediction: West Ham 2-2 Chelsea

Aston Villa vs Wolves – 10:00 AM EST

Aston Villa is favored in this Midlands clash, primarily due to their recent form and attacking prowess. The Villans will look to Ollie Watkins and Jhon Durán to provide goals, while Wolves remain an unpredictable side. Wolves have shown defensive resilience but have struggled to convert chances, with only four goals so far this season. After playing in the Champions League midweek and securing a convincing victory, Villa might rotate some players, making this a potentially cagey affair. Wolves’ Mario Lemina could play a critical role in midfield once again, but ultimately Villa’s superior quality and form should give them the edge.

Prediction: Aston Villa 2-0 Wolves

Fulham vs Newcastle – 10:00 AM EST

Newcastle enters this match as slight favorites, but Fulham has demonstrated defensive resilience this season. Fulham’s compact setup, especially at home, could make life difficult for a Newcastle side that has struggled to find rhythm in attack. Both teams have been involved in high-scoring fixtures recently, and Newcastle has a history of defeating Fulham without conceding. However, Fulham’s attack, led by Raúl Jiménez and Emile Smith Rowe, could break through Newcastle’s defense. With Alexander Isak potentially sidelined, Newcastle may once again rely on Harvey Barnes to lead the scoring.

Prediction: Fulham 1-1 Newcastle

Leicester vs Everton – 10:00 AM EST

This match feels like a must-win for both Leicester and Everton, as both teams have endured disappointing defeats recently. Everton has been unpredictable, or perhaps predictably inconsistent. They can score goals but have struggled defensively, conceding 13 goals so far this season. Leicester must capitalize on Everton’s defensive vulnerabilities, especially from set pieces. With Jamie Vardy and Wilfred Ndidi pulling the strings, Leicester could edge a narrow victory, though Everton’s counter-attacking threat should not be underestimated. Another loss would put significant pressure on Sean Dyche, if not already.

Prediction: Leicester 1-0 Everton

Liverpool vs Bournemouth – 10:00 AM EST

After suffering a surprising loss to Nottingham Forest, Liverpool will look to bounce back at Anfield, having already done so midweek in the Champions League against a strong Milan side in San Siro. Bournemouth will aim to stay compact and frustrate Liverpool, who struggled to break down Forest’s low block. However, with Mohamed Salah and Luis Díaz eager to get back on the scoresheet, Liverpool should dominate possession and take control early. Bournemouth may pose a challenge, especially after their strong performance against Chelsea, but Liverpool’s firepower and determination should prove too much.

Prediction: Liverpool 2-1 Bournemouth

Southampton vs Ipswich – 10:00 AM EST

This is a crucial fixture in the relegation battle, as both Southampton and Ipswich find themselves in the bottom five. Southampton will look to rebound after a disappointing loss to Manchester United, while Ipswich has shown resilience despite tough competition. Their recent draw against Brighton exemplifies their fighting spirit. Both teams have scored just three goals each in the first four weeks, suggesting a low-scoring affair. Southampton’s home advantage might give them the edge, but Ipswich’s counter-attacking threat, led by Liam Delap, could make things interesting.

Prediction: Southampton 1-0 Ipswich

Spurs vs Brentford – 10:00 AM EST

Spurs enter this match as clear favorites, but Brentford has proven to be a tough opponent, as seen in their close contest against Manchester City last week. Spurs, coming off a frustrating North London derby defeat and a last-minute win in the EFL Cup, will be eager to make a statement. However, Brentford’s strong form, driven by Bryan Mbeumo, poses a challenge. Heung-min Son will be crucial in breaking down Brentford’s defense, and Spurs’ desire to dominate could provide Dominic Solanke with a chance to open his scoring account this season, especially with Yoane Wissa sidelined for at least two months.

Prediction: Spurs 2-0 Brentford

Crystal Palace vs Manchester United – 12:30 PM EST

Palace has a strong home record against Manchester United, making this an intriguing contest. Despite their underwhelming start, Palace has the quality to turn their season around, and there’s no better opportunity than against an inconsistent Manchester United side. United, while victorious against Southampton, remains vulnerable at the back. Palace could threaten through Eberechi Eze and Jean-Philippe Mateta, but United’s attacking talent should make for a closely fought battle, given Palace’s defensive vulnerabilities. After a recent thrashing of Barnsley in the EFL Cup, United will be confident, but Palace might just surprise them again—though it’s getting harder to back them without better form.

Prediction: Crystal Palace 1-2 Manchester United

Sunday, 22nd September 2024

Brighton vs Nottingham Forest – 9:00 AM EST

Brighton will aim to bounce back after a disappointing home draw against Ipswich, while Nottingham Forest comes into this match full of confidence after a historic win over Liverpool, remaining undefeated this season. Brighton’s attacking approach will be crucial, but Forest’s disciplined defense, especially in wide areas, could frustrate them. Both teams have been strong defensively, conceding just two goals each this season, suggesting a tactical, low-scoring contest. Brighton’s home advantage should see them edge this one, though Forest can’t be counted out.

Prediction: Brighton 1-1 Nottingham Forest

Manchester City vs Arsenal – 11:30 AM EST

The biggest match of the weekend, and one with significant title implications, pits Manchester City against Arsenal. City has been incredibly consistent this season and will look to maintain their dominance over Arsenal, particularly at home. Arsenal, however, has improved and will want to make a statement, especially after their 0-0 draw in the Champions League. This fixture has historically been low-scoring, with 0-0, 1-0 and 1-1 scorelines in recent history. Both teams have had midweek Champions League duties, so fatigue could play a role. Pep Guardiola’s tactical nous in high-stakes matches may once again prove decisive, while I expect Arteta to find a game plan similar to Inter’s against City in the Champions League, looking to neutralize City’s goalscoring threats and disrupting their possession-based football with a deep back line.

Prediction: Manchester City 2-1 Arsenal