Get our free betting preview and expert tips for Matchweek 1 of the 2025/26 EPL season, along with top online sportsbook odds.
The 2025/26 English Premier League campaign kicks off on Friday, August 15, when reigning champions Liverpool host Bournemouth at Anfield. Top soccer betting sites have markets open for all 10 games in Matchweek 1, which concludes with Leeds hosting Everton on Monday night.
Liverpool vs Bournemouth
Friday, August 15 – 8pm BST – Anfield
After claiming the 2024/25 Premier League title in dominant fashion, the Reds added star playmaker Florian Wirtz and young striker Hugo Ekitike to inject youth into their aging squad. Although Liverpool are overwhelming favorites in this clash, expect at least one goal from both sides on opening night.
Both teams to score – Yes
Aston Villa vs Newcastle United
Saturday, August 16 – 12:30pm BST – Villa Park
Aston Villa will open their season against Newcastle United, who are still dealing with Alexander Isak’s transfer request. Villa have been quiet over the offseason, with little to no player movement. The home side should have the edge in this contest and start the season with a win.
Aston Villa to win
Brighton & Hove Albion vs Fulham
Saturday, August 16 – 3pm BST – American Express Stadium
Brighton and Fulham were two of the most exciting teams to watch throughout the 2024/25 EPL season, with both favoring attacking styles of play. Although the Seagulls lost starting striker Joao Pedro, they should still create plenty of chances — just like their opponents.
Both teams to score + Over 2.5 goals
Sunderland vs West Ham United
Saturday, August 16 – 3pm BST – Stadium of Light
West Ham open their season against newly promoted Sunderland, with the Irons looking to climb back up the EPL table after finishing 14th in 2024/25. Jarrod Bowen was the Hammers’ main man last season, producing 13 goals and eight assists, and there’s no reason to think that will change this campaign.
Jarrod Bowen to score or assist
Tottenham Hotspur vs Burnley
Saturday, August 16 – 3pm BST – Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
Recently promoted Burnley will travel to London to face Europa League champions Tottenham in Matchweek 1. Thomas Frank takes charge of his first EPL match with Spurs, and if his side can control possession, they should dominate both halves.
HT/FT double – Tottenham/Tottenham
Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Manchester City
Saturday, August 16 – 5:30pm BST – Molineux Stadium
Manchester City head into their first EPL season in years without the favorite tag, looking to improve on last year’s third-place finish. Wolverhampton Wanderers have lost key man Matheus Cunha and are expected to struggle. A comfortable City victory looks likely.
Manchester City -1.0
Chelsea vs Crystal Palace
Sunday, August 17 – 2pm BST – Stamford Bridge
Chelsea are riding high after their FIFA Club World Cup triumph over the summer and will kick off their campaign against FA Cup winners Crystal Palace. Both teams have scored in each of the last four meetings between these sides, so that market looks appealing for this fixture.
Both teams to score – Yes
Nottingham Forest vs Brentford
Sunday, August 17 – 2pm BST – The City Ground
Nottingham Forest were the surprise packet of last season, climbing to seventh place with 65 points. Many expect them to hold their position in 2025/26, having kept all their key players. Brentford weren’t as fortunate, losing top scorer Bryan Mbeumo in the offseason. Back the home side.
Nottingham Forest to win
Manchester United vs Arsenal
Sunday, August 17 – 4:30pm BST – Old Trafford
The highlight of Matchweek 1 will be the clash between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford. Both sides have added new strikers — the Gunners signing Viktor Gyökeres, and the Red Devils bringing in Benjamin Šeško along with Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. Expect attacking football for the full 90 minutes and plenty of goal-scoring opportunities.
Both teams to score – Yes
Leeds United vs Everton
Monday, August 18 – 8pm CEST – Elland Road
Leeds United will host Everton in their first game back in the top flight, with Elland Road expected to be full for the final day of Matchweek 1. Both teams have strengthened in key positions and look evenly matched across the pitch. Back the unders with top betting sites in what should be a tightly contested match.
