EPL Matchweek 26 preview, betting tips & goalscorer picks

With Arsenal and Manchester City sniffing at Liverpool’s heels, the 2023/24 English Premier League season is must-watch action every weekend. As we head into Matchday 26, get ready for eight matches of thrilling English football.

Aston Villa vs Nottingham Forest

Sunday, February 25 – 2am AEDT – Villa Park

Following their 2-1 win against Fulham last weekend, Aston Villa have worked their way back into the top four. With the pressure coming from sides below, Villa now face a tricky test against Nottingham Forest. After securing a handy double last weekend, Villa striker Ollie Watkins is the man to watch as he looks to add to his 13 goals this season.

Brighton & Hove Albion vs Everton

Sunday, February 25 – 2am AEDT – American Express Stadium

A thumping 5-0 win over Sheffield United last weekend was a much-needed statement from Brighton as they push for an unlikely top-six position. Facing another relegation candidate this week as they host Everton, expect another high-scoring clash. Undefeated in their past 11 home matches, the Seagulls should be too strong.

Crystal Palace vs Burnley

Sunday, February 25 – 2am AEDT – Selhurst Park

Sitting just five points clear of the relegation zone, Crystal Palace have an excellent opportunity for vital points as they host the relegation-bound Burnley. Under new coach Oliver Glasner, Palace should be too good, and they offer great value at -105.26 for the win with the best EPL bookmakers.

Manchester United vs Fulham

Sunday, February 25 – 2am AEDT – Old Trafford

On a run of four consecutive victories, Manchester United have seemingly put their offensive struggles behind them as they sit inside the top six. Chasing an unlikely Champions League spot, they are expected to continue their good form when they host Fulham. While the Cottagers sit 12th on the EPL table, they have shown glimpses of quality throughout the season, which favours both sides getting onto the scoresheet.

Bournemouth vs Manchester City

Sunday, February 25 – 2am AEDT – Vitality Stadium

After their disappointing draw with Chelsea last weekend, second-placed Manchester City find themselves four points behind Liverpool. City can’t afford to drop easy points, and they should be far too strong for Bournemouth. With the odds skewed towards the visitors, consider adding the over for extra value as City look to repeat their 6-1 victory over the Cherries from earlier this season.

Arsenal vs Newcastle United

Sunday, February 25 – 7am AEDT – Emirates Stadium

With a combined score of 11-0 over their past two matches, Arsenal look the strongest out of the top three sides right now. Newcastle may pose a tougher challenge this weekend, but the Gunners should still be too good. Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka is the man to watch, as he has six goals in his past four matches.

Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Sheffield United

Monday, February 26 – 12:30am AEDT – Molineux Stadium

After securing an impressive away win against Tottenham last weekend, Wolves will look to continue their solid run as they welcome Sheffield United. Statistically the worst defence in the history of the Premier League at this point, the Blades should struggle again after their 5-0 loss to Brighton last weekend. With Wolves coming in as heavy favourites, add the over to boost the odds.

West Ham United vs Brentford

Tuesday, February 17 – 7am AEDT – London Stadium

West Ham have now gone eight matches without a win, thus ruining their top-six hopes. Brentford have also struggled recently, losing four of their past five. After winning the past five Premier League clashes between the sides, the Bees should be confident coming into this match. But with the unpredictability of mid-table clashes, back Brentford captain Ivan Toney to continue his scoring form after adding four goals in his past six matches.

Sports betting tips