Chelsea V Everton (Prediction 2-1):
Chelsea come into this with a strong attacking profile that continues to generate high-quality chances even when results wobble slightly. At home, we expect them to control territory and tempo, forcing Everton into long defensive phases. Everton have been competitive in recent weeks and tend to stay in games, but their underlying numbers still suggest vulnerability when pressure builds for extended periods. This feels like a match Chelsea edge through sustained attacking pressure rather than comfort.

Liverpool V Brighton (Prediction 2-1):
Liverpool’s home performances remain assertive and aggressive, with chance creation consistently outpacing what they concede. Brighton arrive capable of stretching games and creating moments, but their defensive numbers away from home leave little margin for error. We expect a lively contest where Liverpool’s ability to maintain intensity across both halves eventually tells, even if Brighton threaten often enough to keep it close.

Burnley V Fulham (Prediction 1-1):
Burnley continue to find goals but remain exposed defensively, especially when games become stretched. Fulham’s recent form suggests resilience and a growing ability to manage difficult away fixtures without losing structure. This looks like a balanced contest where both sides find space at different moments, but neither does quite enough to fully take control.

Arsenal V Wolves (Prediction 3-0):
Arsenal’s control at the top of the table is built on dominance at both ends of the pitch, combining elite chance creation with one of the league’s tightest defensive records. Wolves arrive having struggled badly for form and goals, particularly away from home. We expect Arsenal to dictate this from early on, gradually pulling Wolves apart through sustained pressure and territory.

Crystal Palace V Man City (Prediction 1-2):
Crystal Palace have been competitive against stronger sides this season and their underlying attacking numbers suggest they can hurt anyone on the day. Man City, though, remain relentless in their chance creation and are improving defensively as the season develops. We expect Palace to have spells where they threaten, but City’s ability to convert control into goals should prove decisive.

Nottingham Forest V Tottenham (Prediction 1-2):
Forest’s home performances have been far more organised than their league position might suggest, particularly in how they limit clear chances. Tottenham, however, continue to generate goals at a high rate and are usually willing to take risks away from home. This could be awkward for long spells, but Spurs’ attacking output should eventually create the breakthrough.

Sunderland V Newcastle (Prediction 1-1):
Sunderland have quietly built a solid campaign, combining steady defensive numbers with enough attacking threat to trouble stronger opposition. Newcastle remain inconsistent, capable of strong performances but vulnerable when games become scrappy. We expect a tight contest shaped by intensity rather than quality, with both sides cancelling each other out over ninety minutes.

West Ham V Aston Villa (Prediction 1-2):
West Ham continue to concede too many high-quality chances, which makes matches against efficient attacking sides particularly dangerous. Aston Villa’s form and underlying numbers suggest a team comfortable playing on the front foot or exploiting space in transition. We expect Villa to find moments where West Ham’s defensive structure cracks, even if the hosts remain competitive for long periods.

Brentford V Leeds (Prediction 2-1):
Brentford’s home form remains built on pressure, physicality and consistent chance creation, especially against sides that struggle defensively. Leeds have shown flashes going forward but their defensive record suggests they are always one spell away from conceding multiple chances. We expect Brentford to control key phases and edge a game that remains open throughout.

Man Utd V Bournemouth (Prediction 2-0):
Manchester United’s recent performances suggest growing control, particularly in matches where they are expected to dictate play. Bournemouth arrive having scored regularly but still concede chances at a worrying rate. At home, we expect United to apply steady pressure and limit Bournemouth’s opportunities, with goals coming from sustained attacking dominance rather than quick bursts.

The Weekly Narrative

This gameweek feels defined by control versus resistance. The leading sides have fixtures that favour territorial dominance and sustained pressure, while several mid-table contests look finely balanced with little separating them beneath the surface. Defensive frailties at the bottom remain costly, especially against teams that generate high expected goals, and there is a growing sense that consistency rather than moments of brilliance is beginning to shape the table as Christmas approaches.