The English Premier League 2024/25 season has kicked off with several Week 1 matchups already completed. Let’s delve into the highlights and outcomes from this weekend’s games.
Man United Secures 1-0 Victory Against Fulham
Manchester United marked their season opener with a strong display, clinching a 1-0 win over Fulham thanks to a late goal by newcomer Joshua Zirkzee.
From almost start to finish, United controlled the game, providing a glimpse of their potential for the season ahead. They registered 14 shots on goal, with 5 finding the target.
Full back Noussair Mazraoui, playing the entire match in his debut for Manchester United, seemed to open up offensive opportunities. Zirkzee, who had recently transferred from Bologna and was not at peak fitness, was introduced in the last 30 minutes. Nonetheless, his presence was felt as the Dutch international deftly chipped in an Alejandro Garnacho cross in the 87th minute.
Next on the schedule for Man United is Brighton, a match where they are anticipated to perform well. Fulham, on the other hand, will face Leicester City in their second game, offering a chance to recover against a team that struggled last season.
Arsenal Achieves 2-0 Win Over Wolves
Arsenal began their Premier League journey with a decisive win over Wolves at Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
Kai Havertz got the ball rolling with a header from a precise Bukayo Saka cross in the first half. Saka then solidified the victory by netting a powerful left-footed shot into the right corner during the second half.
Even though Arsenal didn’t showcase their best performance, they maintained control for the majority of the game. They will likely need to elevate their game when facing Aston Villa next week at Villa Park.
The Wolves had some chances to turn the game around but failed to capitalize on them. Newcomer Jorgen Strand Larsen saw his first-half header saved by Arsenal’s goalkeeper David Raya in what appeared to be their best opportunity. Substitute Matheus Cunha also had a strong shot late in the first half but it went straight at Raya, who made an easy save.
It will be a disheartening debut for the Wolves, especially after accumulating almost £100m from selling Max Kilman and Pedro Neto during the summer. They will likely need to make further investments before the summer transfer window closes if they want to make an impact this season.
Newcastle Triumph Over Southampton Despite Being a Man Down
Newcastle looked like their old selves during their Week 1 victory against Southampton at St. James’ Park on Saturday. They secured a 1-0 win even after Fabian Schar was shown a red card for headbutting Ben Brereton Diaz in the 28th minute.
With a man down so early in the game, Newcastle spent most of their time on the defensive, allowing Southampton 78% possession. They had to fend off 19 shots on goal to maintain their clean sheet.
Close to half-time, Brazilian midfielder Joelinton provided Newcastle with an unexpected lead following an error from the Southampton goalkeeper, who passed the ball directly to Alexander Isak. Isak then set up Joelinton, who smoothly put it into the net, making the score 1-0.
The decisive goal was enough to earn Newcastle three points in their opening match, with their defense holding strong amid several near-miss opportunities.
Next, Newcastle faces Bournemouth in their Premier League fixtures, a game that appears to be in their favor. Kicking off the season with a pair of victories might provide the boost the team needs for a prosperous season ahead.
Find more about the latest English Premier League predictions.
