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Premier League Preview: Liverpool host City in battle for the title, Arsenal look to capitalise in a winnable home clash

MAVERICK GAMES

Our soccer expert shares betting tips and previews some of the key games in matchday 28 including Liverpool against Manchester City at Anfield in what promises to be one of the games of the season.

 

 

Arsenal vs Brentford (Saturday 17:30 UTC)

The Emirates Stadium prepares for a thrilling encounter as Arsenal faces Brentford, a clash that holds significant implications for both teams. Arsenal, currently in the title race just two points behind Liverpool, seeks to maintain their pursuit of the Premier League crown, especially as the top leaders, Liverpool and City, face each other.

In their recent 0-6 triumph over Sheffield United, Arsenal showcased their attacking prowess once more, with contributions from Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, Ben White, and Gabriel Martinelli. On the other side, Brentford, positioned 15th on the table, aims to distance themselves from the relegation zone. Despite a hard-fought draw 2-2 at home against Chelsea, with goals from Mads Roerslev and Yoane Wissa, Brentford faces a tough task against a formidable Arsenal.

Arsenal may employ a possession-based approach, exploiting Brentford's defensive vulnerabilities and utilising quick transitions. Pressing high and creating overloads in wide areas could be pivotal for Arsenal. Brentford, with their solid defensive structure, may opt for a compact block and aim to exploit set pieces and counterattacks. The physical presence of Ivan Toney can be a key factor in both defensive and offensive set-pieces. The midfield battle will be crucial, with Arsenal's creative forces aiming to control the tempo. Brentford's ability to disrupt Arsenal's rhythm and capitalise on set-piece situations might sway the balance in this encounter.

 For this game, Arsenal is priced at 1.209 to win, and Brentford to win is priced at 12.090.

 

Aston Villa vs Tottenham (Sunday 13:00 UTC)

Villa Park sets the stage for an intriguing battle between Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur, with both teams fighting for fourth place and potentially the last ticket to play in the revamped Champions League next season.

Villa’s good form is evident, with a record of 17 wins, four draws, and six losses. The recent 2-3 victory over Luton Town showcased Villa's attacking form, with Ollie Watkins leading the charge and the return of Lucas Digne to the formation. However, injuries to key players, including Jacob Ramsey, Tyron Mings, and Emiliano Buendia, raise concerns for Villa.

 Tottenham, led by Ange Postecoglou, faces a critical juncture in their quest for Champions League football. With a record of 15 wins, five draws, and six losses, Spurs come off a 3-1 victory against Crystal Palace. The likely absence due to injuries of players Richarlison and Pedro Porro poses challenges for Postecoglou's tactical planning. The clash at Villa Park promises not only a battle for points but also a showcase of individual talents, making it a must-watch for football enthusiasts.

Aston Villa may look to exploit Spurs' defensive frailties by deploying a dynamic attacking approach, quick transitions, particularly targeting the spaces left by Spurs' high defensive line, could be effective. Spurs, under Postecoglou, might adopt a more compact defensive block, looking to nullify Villa's attacking threats. Quick counters and utilising the individual brilliance of Son Heung-Min, James Maddison, and Timo Werner could be pivotal.

For this game, the home side is priced at 2.240 to win, and Tottenham’s to win is 2.620, the over is at 3.5 and is priced at 1.884.

 

 

Liverpool vs Manchester City (Sunday 15:45 UTC)

Anfield anticipates a blockbuster clash as Liverpool squares off against Manchester City, a fixture that could prove decisive in the Premier League title race. Liverpool, perched at the top with a one-point lead over City, seeks to extend their lead.

The Reds come from a complicated 0-1 victory over Nottingham Forest, showcasing their attacking determination. Injuries to key players like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Diogo Jota, and Alisson Becker, along with the potential return of Mohamed Salah, add intrigue to Liverpool's lineup.

Manchester City, just one point adrift, boasts a record of 19 wins, five draws, and three losses. The recent win 3-1 against FC Copenhagen for the Champions League highlights City's attacking power. Injuries to Jack Grealish and Jeremy Doku pose challenges, but City remains a formidable force. The rivalry between Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola adds an extra layer of intensity to this clash, making it a potential season-defining moment for both teams.

Liverpool's high-pressing game and quick transitions may disrupt City's buildup. Exploiting spaces behind City's full-backs and utilising the pace of Liverpool's front three can be pivotal. Manchester City, known for their possession-based style, may focus on controlling the midfield and exploiting Liverpool's defensive vulnerabilities. Quick combinations and exploiting set-pieces could be strategic for City.

Manchester City is favoured at 2.240 and Liverpool to win is priced at 3.010, the over is at 3.25, priced at 2.020.

 

Chelsea vs Newcastle United (Monday 20:00 UTC)

Stamford Bridge hosts a crucial clash between Chelsea and Newcastle United, with both teams harbouring similar aspirations in the Premier League.

Chelsea, currently 11th in the league with a record of 10 wins, six draws, and 10 losses, aims to bounce back after a draw against Brentford. Under the management of Mauricio Pochettino, Chelsea relies on attackers Nicolas Jackson and Cole Palmers to rejuvenate their attacking prowess. Injuries to key players Reece James, Ben Chilwell, and Conor Gallagher pose challenges for Pochettino's tactical planning.

 On the other hand, Newcastle United positioned 8th with a record of 12 wins, four draws, and 11 losses, comes into this match with high spirits following a resounding 3-0 victory over Wolves. Goals from Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon, and Tino Livramento showcased Newcastle's attacking depth. The main strikers, Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon, remain pivotal for Eddie Howe's side. With both teams eyeing Conference Cup football next season, the clash at Stamford Bridge promises an intriguing battle for crucial points.

Chelsea, under Pochettino's guidance, may adopt an attacking style, focusing on quick combinations and utilising the individual brilliance of Nicolas Jackson and Cole Palmers. Exploiting Newcastle's defensive vulnerabilities and set-piece situations could be strategic.

Newcastle United, known for their counter-attacking, may look to absorb pressure and capitalize on Chelsea's defensive transitions. Alexander Isak's movement and the creativity of Anthony Gordon become crucial in offensive transitions. The battle in midfield will be key, with both teams boasting dynamic midfielders. Chelsea's ability to control the tempo and Newcastle's efficiency in turnovers may shape the overall flow of the game.

Chelsea is priced at 1.934 to win, and the visiting side to win is 3.540.

 

Full list of Premier League fixtures - Matchday 28

Saturday 9th March

Manchester United vs Everton

Bournemouth vs Sheffield United

Crystal Palace vs Luton Town

Wolves vs Fulham

Arsenal vs Brentford

 

Sunday 10th March

Aston Villa vs Tottenham 

Brighton vs Nottingham Forest

West Ham United vs Burnley

Liverpool vs Manchester City

 

Monday 11th March

Chelsea vs Newcastle United

 

**Odds are subject to change. Odds accurate as of 10:00 UTC Friday 8th March**

To view more expert sports content and previews, view all our latest articles here.

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