Premier League Matchday 33 promises end-to-end action between teams battling for the top positions, as well as those fighting for survival.
After fighting back from a goal down to win 2-1, Manchester City has shown the character of a champion.
READ: Premier League: MatchDay 32 Preview
Arsenal v Everton
Both Arsenal and Everton have a similar terrain to conquer. The Gunners want to at least secure a place in any European competition while the Toffees, with a game in hand, want Champions League football. This makes it a mouth-watering clash between the two teams.
Arsenal is expected to raise their game in their Premier League matchday 33 clash, and convert their chances along the way. If they repeat such a performance seen against Fulham, Everton could secure a historic win here.
The Gunners welcome back captain Pierre-Emeric Aubameyang into the fold after a bout of malaria. Although currently doubtful, partnering with in-form Alexandre Lacazette could create a problem for Everton’s defence. To get a win, Arsenal must be at its clinical best as seen in the match against Slavia Prague in Czech a few days ago.
Everton is obviously missing their top striker, Dominic Calvert Lewin. But the return of the lad to training this week is a huge boost to them.
Carlo Ancelotti is still positive of European football but they must win five games to secure their position. It is expected to be a fierce clash at the Emirates, but I am giving this one to the Gunners.
Prediction: 2-1
Liverpool v Newcastle United
Newcastle will be happy to play Liverpool this time around. They are enjoying a good run, with no defeat recorded in their last three games. The Tyneside club is nine points away from the relegation zone, and confidence is high. Plus, the Reds have been unimpressive on home turf, securing just one win at Anfield this year.
With Alan Saint-Maximim and Calum Wilson back in the team, Steve Bruce’s men have been playing free flow attacking football. They are expected to do that Anfield and exploit the leaky Liverpool defence further.
However, Liverpool has all it takes to win the game from an attacking stance. But if they are wasteful as in their match against Leeds, Newcastle will not hesitate to record a shocking win.
At the end of the day, a composed Liverpool is expected to carry the day here.
Prediction: 2-0
West Ham United v Chelsea
Apart from the fact that this is a London derby, it is also a battle for the last top four spot.
With the exception of their last defeat at St. James’s Park, in-form West Ham have been getting results. This is despite the absence of their talisman, Michail Antonio and Declan Rice.
Jesse Lingard is expected to continue in his goal-scoring form against a Chelsea team that has displayed some inconsistency in their play recently.
Whilst they turned on the heat against Manchester City last weekend in the FA cup semi-finals, this is expected to be a trickier one.
Knowing that a win will take them three points away from the Blues, West Ham will give their all. But Chelsea being a conservative side, could turn on the heat.
Prediction: 1-1
Sheffield United v Brighton & Hove Albion
Relegation is now confirmed for Sheffield United. Playing a Brighton side that wants to move further up the table may give fans the sign of what to expect in the Championship next season. It could be that they are able to secure an immediate return to the top flight like Norwich City.
Brighton on the other hand, will be hoping to return to winning ways after two consecutive goalless draws. It is an excellent opportunity to grab a point or three against a team that has nothing else to lose.
Prediction: 0-1
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Burnley
Wolves will be looking for a win at home against relegation-battling Burnley.
Burnley are just 5 points above Fulham, who are currently occupying the last relegation spot. They will be looking to increase or at least keep that gap to avoid a late drop on the last day.
Sean Dyche’s men are therefore expected to take the game to their hosts who have also found it hard to score goals recently.
If Burnley disturb their hosts as they did against Manchester United, they could nip one here.
Prediction: 1-1
Leeds United v Manchester United
This is expected to be an end to end affair between two teams that are attack minded.
Marcelo Bielsa’s men will surely give their visitors a run for their money. But United still have their eyes on the title and will hope to win as they did on their first encounter.
Patrick Bamford who hit the post against Liverpool might be too hot to handle for United’s defence.
United on the other hand, have all their attackers fit as a fiddle. Relying on the likes of Marcus Rashford, Mason Greenwood and Edison Cavani can get them the results.
Paul Pogba seems to be enjoying his game now, partnering with Bruno Fernadez. The two can partner alongside Fenades to hurt Leeds United. This is expected to produce goals.
Prediction: 2-2
Aston Villa v West Bromwich Albion
Aston Villa welcome relegation-threatened West Brom to Villa Park, with the hope of winning after two defeats in the hands of Liverpool and Manchester City.
With their Premier League status secured, the Birmingham-based club could still qualify for the Europa League. Dean Smith’s men could therefore push for a win here.
However, West Brom are on a good run as they continue their battle against relegation. With a game in hand, the Baggies could still survive the Premier League at the expense of Burnley.
It is therefore expected that Sam Alladyce’s men will use all weapons at their disposal to obtain a win at Villa Park.
Prediction : 1-1
Leicester City v Crystal Palace
Leicester City is hoping to avoid being knocked off the top four after another successful season. The Foxes also need a win to secure their Champions League spot as the battle for the last two places becomes more intense.
Crystal Palace are playing like a team on holiday, since their Premier League status looks assured. But one can’t rule out the magic of Wilfred Zaha and Andros Townsend on a good day.
However, Leicester have the willingness and personnel to get maximum points at the King Power Stadium. Despite not getting any goals from their prolific man, Jamie Vardy, Nigerian international, Kelechi Iheanacho has stepped up to take the team further. He could again score in this Premier League matchday 33.
Prediction: 2-0
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