We take a look at three crucial Premier League fixtures taking place this Sunday, where we suggest a bet for each one.
As the title race intensifies in the final stretch, let’s first take a look at the outright betting odds for the English Premier League. Liverpool leads as favourites to lift the crown at 23/20, followed by second favourites Manchester City, offering odds of 2/1 to retain the title. Arsenal remains in the hunt at 28/10, while other contenders are priced at 750/1 or better.
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MANCHESTER UNITED v LIVERPOOL– Click here to bet
The highlight of this weekend’s fixtures will undoubtedly be at Old Trafford, where Manchester United is set to host league leaders Liverpool this Sunday. The Red Devils head into this crucial clash fresh off a devastating 4-3 loss against Chelsea, eager to replicate their recent FA Cup triumph over the Reds. While United might be out of the title race, the prospect of claiming bragging rights and securing European qualifications adds an extra layer of significance to this encounter for both clubs. Currently occupying 6th spot on the table, United will rely on their home record and the unwavering support of their fans if they are to secure maximum points. Having notched up eight wins, one draw and five losses at Old Trafford this season.
The Red Devils have averaged 1,5 goals per game this season at Old Trafford, with over 2.5 goals arriving in 71.4% of those encounters (10 out of 14).
Liverpool find themselves in the enviable position at the summit of the league table, primed for the title race. The Reds, currently 1st on the log, arrive at Old Trafford buoyed by a commanding 3-1 victory over Sheffield United. Their previous encounter with United, ending in an FA Cup exit, adds fuel to their determination to rectify past setbacks. With their league position under siege from contenders like Manchester City and Arsenal, Liverpool’s resolve to safeguard their standing intensifies. Their away form has been exemplary, boasting eight wins, four draws and a mere two losses thus far, showcasing their prowess on unfamiliar turf.
The Reds have averaged 1.92 goals per game away from home this season, with over 2.5 goals arriving in 57.1% of those encounters (8 out of 14)
Head-to-Head
The reverse fixture between these two sides this season ended in a goalless draw, while Manchester United secured a 2-1 victory over the Reds in this fixture last season.
Verdict
Goals look like a decent prospect at the Theatre of Dreams if we can glean anything from their previous encounter at Old Trafford. The Red Devils tend to up the ante when the Reds are in town, and this should not be any different. Picking a winner between these two seems like a difficult task, so instead, we delve into the goals department where over 3.5 goals captures my attention.
Recommended Bet: Totals, Over 3.5 at 9/10
SHEFFIELD UNITED v CHELSEA– Click here to bet
Sheffield United will host Chelsea at Bramall Lane this Sunday, coming off a recent 3-1 defeat at the hands of Liverpool. This result means that the Blades have only managed to secure two points from a possible eighteen in their last six league appearances. Currently sitting at the bottom of the table with a mere fifteen points, their future prospects in the EPL look daunting. To make matters worse, Sheffield United hasn’t performed any better at home this season, boasting the worst home record with just two wins, three draws and ten losses to date.
The Blades have averaged 1 goal per game this season at home, with over 2.5 goals arriving in 86.6% of those encounters (13 out of 15).
Chelsea, currently 10th on the table, will be visiting Sheffield United following their superb 4-3 win against Manchester United. The Blues would be the first to admit that they have not had the best of seasons. Pochettino will be hoping to finish the season strongly, offering them a glimmer of hope to secure a spot in Europe next season. Away from home, Chelsea’s form has been somewhat indifferent. Having registered five wins, three draws, and six losses to date, resulting in a negative 1-goal difference on the road.
The Blues have averaged 1.71 goals per game away from home this season, with over 2.5 goals arriving in 71.4% of those encounters (10 out of 14)
Head-to-Head
Chelsea won 2-0 in the reverse fixture earlier this season.
Verdict
With just four games left at Bramall Lane, Sheffield United are running out of time to save their season and avoid relegation. Chelsea will view this match as potentially one of their easier fixtures this season, but they’ve struggled defensively away from home, conceding in twelve out of fourteen matches. While I expect Chelsea to win, Sheffield United may surprise by putting up a bit of a fight.
Recommended Bet: Result And Both Teams To Score, Chelsea And Yes at 15/10
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TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR v NOTTINGHAM FOREST– Click here to bet
Tottenham Hotspur will host Nottingham Forest this Sunday following a midweek 1-1 draw against West Ham. Positioned 5th on the table, Spurs aim to uphold their consecutive home victories, recognizing that anything less than a win could severely impact their Champions League aspirations. With just two points behind Aston Villa, Postecoglou acknowledges the importance of targeting games like these to secure maximum points and apply pressure on their rivals. Notably, Spurs have showcased their dominance at home with eleven wins and four draws, intriguingly without any draws this season so far.
Spurs have averaged 2.06 goals per game this season at home, with over 2.5 goals arriving in 86.6% of those encounters (13 out of 15).
Nottingham Forest arrives at Spurs following an impressive 3-1 victory over Fulham, making a statement of intent as they strive to endure this EPL campaign despite being penalized four points for breaching financial rules. This victory was crucial, being their first win in their last six league matches, underscoring the significance of those points as they currently sit precariously in 17th place on the table, on the brink of relegation. However, Forest’s away form has been dismal, with only two wins, four draws, and nine losses, earning just two points from a possible fifteen in their last five league fixtures on the road.
Forest have averaged 1.06 goals per game this season on the road, with over 2.5 goals arriving in 53.3% of those encounters (8 out of 15)
Head-to-Head
Spurs won the reverse fixture 2-0 earlier this season and won 3-1 in this fixture last season.
Verdict
Given the significance for both teams, a case could be made for each. However, Spurs appear to be a team on the rise and if they are to challenge those above them for Champions League aspirations, they should prioritize matches like these. While Forest will be eager to secure points, considering their position, their poor performance away from home suggests a comfortable win by at least two goals looks like value.
Recommended Bet: Handicap, Tottenham Hotspur -1.5 at 21/20
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Note: All prices correct at the time of writing but are subject to change
