EPL Matchweek 20: Drama Unfolds as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool Drop Points

The first fixture of the new year delivered all the excitement EPL fans could ask for, controversial penalties, last-minute drama, and title-race twists. Three of the top four sides stumbled, while Manchester City rediscovered their groove.

Here’s the full breakdown:

Newcastle’s Hot Streak Continues with a Win Over Spurs

Newcastle made it five wins in a row, edging past Tottenham 2–1 in a thrilling encounter. The game started with fireworks as Tottenham’s Dominic Solanke capitalized on Johnson’s perfect cross to score just three minutes in. However, Newcastle struck back immediately, with Anthony Gordon calmly slotting in the equalizer moments later.
Jacob Murphy’s low cross found Alexander Isak for the decisive tap-in just before halftime. Despite Spurs dominating possession in the second half, Newcastle’s defense held firm, keeping their European hopes alive.

Late Drama Denies Chelsea Victory in London Derby

Chelsea’s struggles continued in a 1–1 draw against Crystal Palace. Jadon Sancho, on loan, dazzled with some sublime footwork, setting up Cole Palmer for a cool finish in the 13th minute. But that was the Blues’ only meaningful contribution in attack.

As the clock ticked down, Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze worked tirelessly down the left flank, delivering a low cross for Matete to poke home in the 82nd minute. Chelsea’s winless streak extends to four games, leaving them fourth in the table, ten points adrift of leaders Liverpool.

Arsenal Miss the Chance to Close the Gap

The Gunners hoped to close the gap on Liverpool but were held to a 1–1 draw at Brighton. Arsenal’s Ethan Nwaneri, making his second Premier League start, showcased his brilliance with a stunning opener in the 16th minute.

Brighton kept pressing and were rewarded with a controversial penalty after William Saliba’s aerial challenge collided with Joao Pedro. Pedro converted from the spot, denying Arsenal a crucial win and leaving their title hopes hanging by a thread.

Liverpool and Man United Share the Spoils in a Classic Clash

The match of the weekend saw Liverpool and Manchester United serve up a thrilling 2–2 draw at Anfield. United, enduring their worst start to a season in four decades, stunned the crowd when Lisandro Martínez smashed in a shot to put the visitors ahead early in the second half.

Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo equalized minutes later with a brilliant solo effort, and Mohamed Salah slotted home a penalty after a De Ligt handball. United found a late equalizer when Alejandro Garnacho’s cross was converted by Amad Diallo. The game almost had a dramatic finish, but Harry Maguire’s stoppage-time effort narrowly missed, ensuring both teams shared the points.

Other Matchweek 20 Results:

• Manchester City 4–1 West Ham: City secured back-to-back wins for the first time since October, dismantling West Ham with ease.
• Bournemouth 1–0 Everton: Bournemouth edged past struggling Everton with a scrappy performance.
• Southampton 0–5 Brentford: Brentford delivered a masterclass, dismantling Southampton in a five-star display.
• Aston Villa 2–1 Leicester City: Villa’s consistency continued with a narrow win at home.
• Fulham 2–2 Ipswich Town: A balanced encounter saw both sides take a point.