Premier League Roundup, Matchday 1
The Premier League has completed its opening round of matches, featuring exciting games, standout performances from players, and unexpected outcomes. Here’s a summary of what took place on matchday 1 in the Premier League.
Manchester United 1-0 Fulham
Joshua Zirkzee had a fantastic debut for Manchester United, scoring a late goal that clinched a tense 1-0 victory over Fulham. This win marked the Red Devils’ record-extending 22nd consecutive opening day victory in the top flight. Fulham could argue they deserved at least a draw, as they nearly achieved back-to-back away league wins against such a prestigious opponent for the first time.
Ipswich 0-2 Liverpool
Arne Slot began his tenure as Liverpool manager with a 2-0 win over Ipswich Town at Portman Road, providing a reality check for the newly promoted team in their first Premier League season in 22 years. This victory extends Liverpool’s unbeaten streak on opening day to 13 matches. While there will be tougher challenges ahead for their title aspirations this season, Slot and his team can take pride in their control during the second half, where they scored both goals. On the other hand, Kieran McKenna will certainly take some positives from his team’s performance on Saturday.
Nottingham Forest 1-1 Bournemouth
Nottingham Forest broke a five-year streak of losing on opening day, but they were unable to secure all three points in the Premier League as Antoine Semenyo’s late goal equalized Chris Wood’s first-half strike at the City Ground. It seemed that Bournemouth would regret not converting their chances until just three minutes before the end, when Harry Toffolo’s unsuccessful clearance deflected off Murillo, allowing Semenyo to score from close range. This late goal prevented Forest from achieving their first win in nine league encounters against Bournemouth.
Newcastle 1-0 Southampton
Newcastle secured a 1-0 victory over Southampton despite being reduced to 10 players in the first half, marking a successful start to their 2024/25 Premier League season and extending the Saints’ winless streak to nine matches at St. James’ Park. This victory was a commendable achievement for Newcastle, whose supporters will be pleased to see the return of the solid defensive performance that helped them qualify for the Champions League in the 2022/23 season, as this win also ended a six-match Premier League run without a clean sheet.
Everton 0-3 Brighton
Brighton achieved their first-ever fourth consecutive opening day win, as new manager Fabian Hürzeler kicked off his Premier League tenure with a 3-0 victory over Everton at Goodison Park. To make matters worse for Everton fans, veteran player Ashley Young received a red card for the fourth time in his Premier League career after being penalized for holding back Mitoma as the last defender. With a player advantage, the Seagulls extended their lead with Simon Adingra’s goal in the 87th minute. This victory marked Brighton’s first Premier League away win since February and dealt a tough blow to Sean Dyche’s Everton.
Arsenal 2-0 Wolves
Arsenal started the new Premier League season with a 2-0 victory over Wolves at the Emirates Stadium. Last season’s top defense in the league managed to keep another clean sheet as they aim for another title challenge. Meanwhile, Wolves have now only managed one win in their last 11 league matches dating back to the previous season, although there were some encouraging signs for Gary O’Neil’s team to build upon.
West Ham 1-2 Aston Villa
Jhon Durán secured Aston Villa’s inaugural win at the London Stadium by netting a late goal, leading to a 2-1 triumph for Unai Emery’s team on the Premier League season’s opening day. This victory marked only the second win in 13 matches against West Ham, boosting confidence as they prepare for their first UEFA Champions League campaign since 1983. On the other hand, the hosts showed promising signs despite the loss, particularly as Lopetegui’s strategy is still being integrated and their numerous new players are gradually being incorporated into the team.
Brentford 2-1 Crystal Palace
After finishing the previous season unbeaten in their last seven matches, Crystal Palace faced a defeat on the opening day of the Premier League against Brentford, who won 2-1 in the first London derby of the new season at the Brentford Community Stadium. Brentford ultimately achieved their first victory over Crystal Palace in seven encounters, with Yoane Wissa scoring from close range. This loss will be disappointing for Glasner, who will be looking to strengthen his squad before the transfer window closes.
Chelsea 0-2 Manchester City
Manchester City kicked off their Premier League title defense in style, defeating Chelsea 2-0 on the first day of the season, marking their 13th victory in 14 opening matches. Chelsea’s manager, Marseca, introduced four of his many new signings in a bid to turn the game around, but it was Mateo Kovačić who sealed the win for Man City. This result gave City a flawless start to the season, while Chelsea faces lingering doubts about their capabilities as they prepare for their UEFA Europa Conference League qualifier against Servette later in the week.
Leicester City 1-1 Tottenham
Tottenham Hotspur’s strong performance in the first half ultimately went to waste as Leicester City, led by Jamie Vardy, fought back to secure a 1-1 draw in Steve Cooper’s debut match at the King Power Stadium. A head collision involving Betancur, which required him to be carried off the field, caused a significant delay and led to nine minutes of added time. Despite this, neither team managed to score a winning goal, with Ndidi coming closest for Leicester with a header that was saved by Vicario. While the home team can take positives from their unexpected comeback, it marks a disappointing start for Spurs, who have now only won two of their last eight league games.
