5th January 2025 – (London) Arsenal missed a crucial opportunity to reduce Liverpool’s lead at the top of the Premier League to three points after being held to a 1-1 draw away at Brighton on Saturday. The Gunners took the lead early in the match thanks to 17-year-old winger Ethan Nwaneri, who scored after 16 minutes with a clever flick from Mikel Merino. However, Arsenal struggled to convert their possession into clear-cut chances and were punished when Joao Pedro equalised from the penalty spot in the 61st minute, following a foul by defender William Saliba.
In other Premier League action, Newcastle United continued its impressive form, overcoming Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 to secure a fifth consecutive league victory. Alexander Isak scored the winner, marking his seventh goal in as many matches, which puts Newcastle just a point behind fourth-placed Chelsea. Tottenham initially took the lead through Dominic Solanke in the fourth minute, but Anthony Gordon equalised just two minutes later, capitalising on a defensive error.
Chelsea faced a challenging outing against Crystal Palace and were held to a 1-1 draw after leading for much of the match. Cole Palmer opened the scoring for Chelsea in the 14th minute, but Jean-Philippe Mateta’s late equaliser, set up by Eberechi Eze, denied them all three points.
Manchester City appears to be regaining its form, thrashing West Ham United 4-1. Erling Haaland netted two goals after Vladimir Coufal inadvertently deflected Savinho’s cross into his own net in the 10th minute. Savinho was instrumental, providing three assists, while Phil Foden added City’s fourth goal before Niclas Fullkrug scored a consolation for West Ham. Julen Lopetegui’s side is under pressure, having conceded at least three goals in seven matches this season.
Bournemouth remains in contention at the top of the table after a narrow 1-0 victory over struggling Everton. David Brooks scored the only goal in the 77th minute, capitalising on Bournemouth’s dominance, as Everton failed to register a single shot on target.
Southampton’s relegation fears deepened after a dismal 5-0 home defeat to Brentford, who had struggled on the road this season. Brentford’s Kevin Schade opened the scoring in the sixth minute, with Bryan Mbeumo netting two goals in the second half, while Keane Lewis-Potter and Yoane Wissa sealed the rout in injury time.
Leicester City also faced a setback, losing 2-1 to Aston Villa. All three goals came within an 18-minute period, with Ross Barkley giving Villa the lead in the 58th minute. Stephy Mavididi quickly equalised for Leicester, but Leon Bailey’s 76th-minute strike handed Villa the victory.
