One week down (mostly), 37 weeks to go. The 2020-2021 Premier League season is off and running. Despite 4 teams being idle this past weekend, we were treated to three glorious days of top flight football. Did you miss anything? If so, we’ve got you covered. Catch up on all the goings on from Matchweek 1 here.
Now that you’re all caught up, let’s take a look at what’s on tap for Matchweek 2!
Everton v. West Brom
Given the contrasting starts these two squads had, it’ll bear watching how this matchup goes. Everton will look to continue building momentum off of their 1-0 victory against Tottenham. West Brom, on the other hand, will hope to leave their lackluster game against Leicester in the rear view mirror. They’ve just signed Branislav Ivanović to hopefully bolster the defense.
Leeds v. Fulham
These two are familiar foes, having both earned promotion to the Premiership this season. Leeds gave Liverpool a scare in Matchweek 1, while Fulham looked like they were still getting reacquainted with Premier League life in a 3-0 loss to Arsenal.
Manchester United v. Crystal Palace
The Red Devils open the season at home against the Eagles. United was one of the better teams during Project Restart, and they’ll look to continue their ascendancy in hopes of competing for the top spot in the league. Palace surprised Southampton with a solid performance in Matchweek 1. Which version of Palace will show this time? This match is also another “Turf War” between Justin and yours truly.
Arsenal v. West Ham
Arsenal fans spent the weekend thanking Chelsea for parting ways with Willian, who had a great debut while helping dismantle an overmatched Fulham. The Hammers found the woodwork a couple of times against Newcastle, but ultimately came up short. They’ll hope the ball bounces their way against the Gunners.
Southampton v. Tottenham Hotspur
Part two of the day’s “Turf War” pits Ryan’s Saints against Kevin’s Spurs. It was a “lazy” start to the season for Mourinho’s Spurs, who begin on the back foot, dropping all three points to Everton during Matchweek 1. If they’re going to keep pace with the top teams in the league, they’ll need to right the ship, and quickly. Of course, the same could be said for Southampton. Their result was more a product of stout defense and solid goalkeeping from their opponents than a lack of energy.
Newcastle v. Brighton
It was a great debut for two of Newcastle’s newest weapons. Both Callum Wilson and Jeff Hendrick found the back of the net against West Ham. Brighton had a tough go of it against a new-look Chelsea. They had a brief moment of hope after Trossard equalized, only to watch Reece James score what could be the goal of the weekend to put Chelsea back on top.
Chelsea v. Liverpool
This is the game of the weekend. The defending champs managed to come out on top in the first game of their title defense, though it probably served as a bit of a wakeup call when newly promoted Leeds United put 3 on the scoreboard before an 88th minute PK to complete Salah’s hat trick sealed the victory. Chelsea ultimately took care of business against Brighton as was expected. It did take them a bit to get going, but with so many new players on the pitch, it’s understandable if the chemistry isn’t quite there yet. That fact alone should worry the rest of the league.
Leicester v. Burnley
The Clarets of Burnley will mark their season debut in this one. Their opening week match against Manchester United was postponed because of the Red Devils’ European commitment. Despite that, they’re already shorthanded, having lost Johann Berg Gudmundsson to injury during their Cup tie against Sheffield United. How will Sean Dyche’s men hold up against the Foxes? Will Jamie Vardy be able to add to the pair of goals he scored against West Brom, or will Nick Pope be up to the task of stopping the speedy striker? This should be a fun watch.
Aston Villa v. Sheffield United
Villa will look to get off to a good start this season. Like Burnley, this will be their maiden voyage as their opener against Manchester City was postponed as well. Jack Grealish, who recently signed a 5-year contract with the club, will want to get on the scoresheet early and often. For Sheffield, that will mean remembering what time the game kicks off. Last week they were down 2-0 to Wolves within 6 minutes – a scenario they’ll look to avoid this time around.
Wolves v. Manchester City
Both of these sides will be looking to make some history in this matchup. For City, they could become the first club to be victorious in their opening match for 10 straight years. Wolves, on the other hand, could be the first to defeat a Pep Guardiola team three times in a row if they continue their trend from last season, where they posted 2-0 and 3-2 wins in their clashes with City.
There you go! Now you’re primed and ready for another exciting weekend of Premier League football – enjoy!
