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The Premier League Matchweek 26 was an absolute thrilling spectacle for the sight, and it may well have stamped a turning point in the title race, with Liverpool gaining a crucial advantage. However, the weekend wasn’t all about the Reds triumphing in the headline fixture against reigning champions Manchester City, but it also exposed vulnerabilities in several top teams which had them fell against the improbables, most notably was Chelsea leaving the Villa Park with no single point.
Here are the scores from the weekend actions:
- Leicester 0-4 Brentford
- Everton 2-2 Man Utd
- AFC Bournemouth 0-1 Wolves
- Arsenal 0-1 West Ham
- Fulham 0-2 Crystal Palace
- Ipswich Town 1-4 Spurs
- Southampton 0-4 Brighton
- Aston Villa 2-1 Chelsea
- Newcastle United 4-3 Nottingham Forest
- Man City 0-2 Liverpool
What we learned & Major Talking Points:
Liverpool’s Title Ambitions Gain Further Momentum
Liverpool’s new manager, Arne Slot might have been making waves, but it’s the team’s defensive and attacking stalwarts who are driving their title charge. Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah at both ends of the pitch delivered outstanding performances against Manchester City like they’ve done all season, securing a vital win away from home for the Reds.
Van Dijk’s defensive expertise was on full display as he expertly marshaled the Liverpool defense, while his partnership with Ibrahima Konate has been instrumental in the team’s success. Salah, meanwhile, is having an exceptional attacking season, exhibiting his skill and vision with a brilliant goal and an assist, as he keeps racking up the numbers.
City’s Reliance on Haaland Laid Bare
Manchester City’s performance against Liverpool was far from disastrous, but they struggled to convert their dominance into goals without Erling Haaland. Jeremy Doku posed a constant threat to Trent Alexander-Arnold, delivering several pinpoint crosses, but City obviously lacked a clinical finisher, typical of Erling Haaland.
The question on everyone’s mind is how City will adapt without Haaland. Omar Marmoush and Phil Foden filled in as makeshift strikers, but they couldn’t replicate Haaland’s impact. City’s inability to find a cutting edge in attack ultimately proved costly.
Arsenal’s Struggles Continue
Arsenal’s 1-0 loss to West Ham was a major setback for the Gunners, who are grappling with injuries to key players. The defeat raised questions about Arsenal’s ability to compete with the league’s rigid teams.
Mikel Arteta’s side has been praised for their progress, but they must also be held accountable for their shortcomings. Saturday’s loss to West Ham showed Arsenal’s inability to break down a resolute defense. The team’s lack of depth was also exposed, as they were not reinforced in the January transfer window.
Spurs’ Bench Strength Proves Decisive
Tottenham Hotspur‘s 4-1 win over Ipswich Town showcased the importance of having a strong substitute bench. Spurs’ ability to bring on experienced players like James Maddison and Dane Scarlett made a vital impact on the game.
Ange Postecoglou’s team plays with high intensity, and the ability to make five substitutions is a game-changer. Destiny Udogie and Brennan Johnson returned from injury, but they were substituted after an hour. James Maddison and Dane Scarlett provided assists for the late goals to secure the win for Spurs.
Newcastle and Forest own up to Top-Four Ambitions
Newcastle United’s 4-3 win over Nottingham Forest was an enthralling encounter that exhibited the intensity of the top-four battle. Both teams displayed urgency and hunger, and the result could have significant implications for their respective seasons.
With 12 games remaining, the Premier League season is far from over. Newcastle and Forest have both demonstrated their ability to compete with the best, and they will be looking to build on this result in the coming weeks, especially against teams in the bottom half of the table.
Congrats Liverpool