EPL 2024/25: Matchweek 5 Recap

Another week, another burst of excitement in the English Premier League, and already there’s plenty to discuss in this early season. For the second consecutive week, I didn’t nail any exact match predictions but did correctly call the winners, losers, or draws in four out of ten matches. Top plays on WagerPass were a great success, as I was able to use all this information to better finalize the weekend plays, so perhaps this week, this is my saving grace. Despite a better performance last week, I can only attribute the inconsistency to the early-season volatility, with teams still finding their form and adapting to a demanding schedule, as discussed in our first article. Teams are juggling European competitions and domestic cup competitions during the week and high-stakes league matches over the weekends.

In the midst of all this, we’ve already lost Rodri for the entire season due to an ACL tear, Haaland lost his head against Arsenal, Nicolas Jackson suddenly looks like a 20-plus goal candidate, Dean Henderson—who I was critical of last week—turned in one of his best performances against Manchester United, Danny Welbeck scored his first-ever free-kick goal, and so much more. Without further ado, here is your English Premier League Matchweek 5 Recap followed by my Matchweek 6 preview.

West Ham 0-3 Chelsea

Chelsea delivered a commanding performance against West Ham, highlighted by a flurry of attacking contributions. Nicolas Jackson shone with three goal involvements, while Cole Palmer scored and Jadon Sancho provided an assist. However, game management and rotation remain concerns for Chelsea, with key attackers like Jackson, Sancho and Palmer being substituted, likely due to the comfortable match state. Chelsea are looking much better than how they started the season, but the lack of a consistent starting eleven and a squad still full of players seeking opportunities will need to be managed moving forward. As for West Ham, despite having quality on paper, their performances have been underwhelming, and their defense looked particularly exposed. Sitting 14th in the table with nine goals conceded, the team needs significant improvement before they can be considered serious contenders again.

Liverpool 3-0 Bournemouth

Liverpool secured a well-deserved victory, but not without defensive frailties even though they did not concede. Luis Díaz was sensational in the first half, netting two goals and being the standout player with his direct, aggressive play. In the second half, Mohamed Salah shifted centrally, taking more control of Liverpool’s attacking moves. This tactical change allowed Salah to exert more influence, though Díaz’s withdrawal around the 70th minute highlighted Liverpool’s tendency to rotate their forwards. While Liverpool’s defense wasn’t at its best, much of this was due to a spirited Bournemouth attack led by Semenyo, who posed a consistent threat. Despite their defensive lapses, Liverpool’s overall solidity and scoring ability have allowed them to maintain momentum despite a setback last week. For Bournemouth, their inability to convert chances, as seen in the Chelsea match, remains their biggest issue.

Crystal Palace 0-0 Manchester United

Manchester United’s goalless draw with Crystal Palace was a story of missed opportunities. United dominated possession and created five big chances in the first 60 minutes, yet they failed to convert any. Garnacho was particularly lively, hitting the post, while Bruno Fernandes and Rashford struggled to find the back of the net. Palace were largely on the back foot but managed to create a few chances as the match opened up, with Eberechi Eze coming close to scoring late on. United’s defense, anchored by Lisandro Martinez, held firm, but consistency remains a question mark as United should be aiming for victories rather than draws. For Palace, Henderson’s heroics in goal were crucial, but their defensive structure still looks shaky despite the clean sheet. Continuing to expect them to return to their second-half form last year has not been fruitful so far.

Fulham 3-1 Newcastle

Fulham secured a convincing win against a lackluster Newcastle side. Raúl Jiménez, starting over Muniz again, played a pivotal role, scoring a brilliant goal that showcased his quality. Emile Smith Rowe also impressed, finishing off a well-worked move, though his deeper-lying position might limit his attacking returns moving forward. Newcastle’s performance was underwhelming, with Isak struggling to make an impact. Their defensive and attacking coherence needs improvement if they are to challenge for higher positions. Harvey Barnes’ goal was a bright spot, but overall, Newcastle’s true strength remains a concern.

Leicester 1-1 Everton

This match was a tale of two struggling teams in extreme rainy weather. Leicester’s only highlight was Mavididi’s goal, and overall, they offered little threat. Jamie Vardy was ineffective, and Leicester’s attack lacked cohesion and creativity. Everton looked more promising, especially with Calvert-Lewin getting into good positions, though he failed to convert his chances – a theme that has been going on for this season. Dwight McNeil, operating in a more advanced role, was Everton’s most creative player, but his efforts were not enough to secure a win. Both teams need to find a spark if they hope to climb out of the lower half of the table, but as things stand, they seem destined for a relegation battle.

Tottenham 3-1 Brentford

Tottenham’s attacking prowess was on full display as they overcame Brentford. Son Heung-min and James Maddison were pivotal, with Son creating numerous chances and Maddison adding sharpness to Spurs’ midfield play. Solanke, although not heavily involved, found himself in promising positions but failed to capitalize on his chances. Brentford’s defense, usually robust, looked disorganized and susceptible to Spurs’ fluid attacking play. Despite an early goal from Mbeumo, Brentford couldn’t sustain their momentum, and their defensive vulnerabilities were fully exposed.

Aston Villa 3-1 Wolves

A game of two halves saw Aston Villa dominate the second half after a strong start from Wolves. Ollie Watkins was on target again, but Villa’s overall attacking output was below expectations given the fixture. Wolves looked promising in the first half, with Cunha scoring from a defensive error, but they faded as Villa took control. Jhon Duran continues to score, while Wolves’ defensive lapses make them an inconsistent and relegation-threatened team.

Southampton 1-1 Ipswich

A closely contested match saw Southampton and Ipswich share the points. Despite playing well, Southampton were let down by poor finishing, particularly from Cameron Archer, who missed several clear chances. Dibling’s lively performance was a highlight, as he continues to impress in an attacking role. Ipswich, resilient as they have been this season, managed to secure a late equalizer, capitalizing on Southampton’s defensive lapses. Both teams showed the typical ups and downs expected from newly promoted sides, with their defensive inconsistencies standing out, but a shared point was a fair result.

Brighton 2-2 Nottingham Forest

Brighton dominated possession but were frustrated by Nottingham Forest’s disciplined counter-attacking approach. Despite controlling the game, Brighton managed only one clear-cut chance, highlighting their continued struggle to break down deep-lying defenses. Forest, on the other hand, made the most of their limited opportunities, with Hudson-Odoi and Silva causing problems on the break. A late equalizer, despite being down to ten men, showcased Forest’s resilience. Brighton will need to find a way to translate their possession into goals if they are to turn these frustrating draws into wins.

Manchester City 2-2 Arsenal

In what was billed as the match of the week, Manchester City and Arsenal played out a thrilling draw. The match was marked by Rodri’s early injury, which disrupted City’s midfield balance and allowed Arsenal to take the lead. The turning point came with Trossard’s red card, which forced Arsenal to adopt a more defensive approach. Despite City’s relentless pressure and 85% possession in the second half, Arsenal’s defense held firm, with Gabriel excelling in set-piece situations. Erling Haaland continued his fine form, scoring late to rescue a point for City but made headlines for all the wrong reasons as he was quite fired up throughout the match. This match highlighted City’s vulnerability without Rodri and Arsenal’s defensive solidity even under immense pressure.

EPL 2024/25: Matchweek 6 Preview

Saturday, 28 September 2024

Manchester City vs. Newcastle United – 7:30 AM EST

Manchester City will look to build on their composed performance against Arsenal as they host Newcastle. Their methodical approach, characterized by high possession and patient build-up, makes them difficult to break down. Newcastle, on the other hand, will aim to bounce back after a demoralizing loss to Fulham, which exposed defensive frailties. While Newcastle possess a potent attack, breaking down City’s disciplined defense will be a tough task. The absence of Rodri may provide some opportunities for Newcastle to exploit, but City’s depth and tactical flexibility should see them through.

Prediction: Manchester City 2-1 Newcastle United

Arsenal vs. Leicester City – 10:00 AM EST

Leicester City’s winless start to the season has been compounded by a lack of cohesion in both attack and defense. Arsenal, despite a tough draw against Manchester City, showed glimpses of their potential in the second half. At the Emirates, Arsenal will be keen to dominate possession and dictate the tempo. Leicester’s defense has been leaky, and Arsenal’s dynamic front line, with players like Saka and Havertz pulling the strings, should create numerous scoring opportunities. Expect Arsenal to be relentless, especially with the motivation to stay close to Manchester City in the title race.

Prediction: Arsenal 3-0 Leicester City

Brentford vs. West Ham United – 10:00 AM EST

West Ham have been frustratingly inconsistent. While they manage to create chances, their inability to convert and defensive lapses have left them vulnerable. Brentford, though not spectacular, have been solid and will aim to take advantage of West Ham’s transitional period. I expect Brentford to focus on pressing high and exploiting West Ham’s tendency to lose concentration, particularly in the latter stages of the game. Brentford’s organized setup and home advantage should tilt the balance in their favor in this unpredictable matchup.

Prediction: Brentford 2-1 West Ham United

Chelsea vs. Brighton – 10:00 AM EST

Chelsea have shown signs of resurgence this season, accumulating 10 points from their first five games. Their defense looks stronger, but they now face an unbeaten Brighton side known for their tactical discipline and ability to disrupt opponents’ play. Brighton’s well-drilled approach has frustrated many teams, and Chelsea will need to be patient in breaking them down. This match is likely to be a tactical chess game, with both sides being cautious. A draw seems the most probable outcome given Brighton’s tendency to settle for points on the road.

Prediction: Chelsea 1-1 Brighton

Everton vs. Crystal Palace – 10:00 AM EST

Both Everton and Crystal Palace have struggled to find their footing this season, but Palace have shown slightly more promise in their overall play. Everton’s habit of throwing away leads and defensive fragility has been a recurring issue. Palace, while not particularly prolific, are more cohesive as a unit and will look to exploit Everton’s vulnerabilities. I expect Palace to sit deep and hit on the counter, using their pace and technical quality to find openings in Everton’s defense.

Prediction: Everton 1-2 Crystal Palace

Nottingham Forest vs. Fulham – 10:00 AM EST

Forest and Fulham have been among the surprise packages of the season. Forest’s spirited performance against Brighton, where they held out despite being down to ten men, showcases their resilience. Fulham, meanwhile, have been clinical, thrashing Newcastle and demonstrating their attacking prowess. This match could see both teams playing cautiously, aiming to avoid defeat rather than going all out for a win. With both sides capable of scoring, a draw with goals on both ends seems likely.

Prediction: Nottingham Forest 2-2 Fulham

Wolves vs. Liverpool – 12:30 PM EST

Wolves are in dire straits, struggling to find form and the back of the net. Liverpool, rejuvenated after a slip-up, have tightened up defensively and look sharp in attack. With key players like Mohamed Salah and Darwin Núñez hitting their stride, Liverpool are expected to dominate this encounter. Wolves’ lack of a clinical edge means they will likely struggle to break down Liverpool’s organized defense, while Liverpool’s relentless attacking pressure should see them secure a comfortable win.

Prediction: Wolves 0-4 Liverpool

SUNDAY, 29 September 2024

Ipswich Town vs. Aston Villa – 9:00 AM EST

Ipswich have had a tough introduction to the Premier League, facing several top-tier teams early on. Their defense, already under scrutiny, will be severely tested by Aston Villa’s dynamic attack. Villa, with creative outlets like Ollie Watkins and Jhon Duran, should have too much firepower for Ipswich to handle. While Ipswich will hope to scrape something from this fixture, Villa’s superior quality and experience should see them through comfortably.

Prediction: Ipswich Town 1-3 Aston Villa

Manchester United vs. Tottenham Hotspur – 11:30 AM EST

Manchester United’s frustrating draw with Crystal Palace highlighted their struggles with consistency. Tottenham, despite falling behind early against Brentford, displayed a spirited comeback. This fixture, featuring two of the league’s most unpredictable sides, promises goals. United will look to control possession and play through their midfield, while Spurs will rely on quick transitions and set-pieces to exploit United’s sometimes shaky defense. Another high-scoring draw seems likely as both teams seek to assert themselves in the battle for European places.

Prediction: Manchester United 2-2 Tottenham Hotspur

monday, 30 September 2024

Bournemouth vs. Southampton – 3:00 PM EST

Bournemouth will be eager to put their heavy loss at Anfield behind them and will see this match as an opportunity to do so. Facing a Southampton team that has struggled defensively, Bournemouth’s attacking approach should pay dividends. Southampton’s inability to keep things tight at the back will be a major concern, and Bournemouth’s pace and creativity in the final third should see them come away with all three points.

Prediction: Bournemouth 3-1 Southampton