It seems like just yesterday that the English Premier League season concluded, but they are getting back at it again. Just six weeks ago Liverpool capped off their title season with a 3-1 victory over Newcastle, so they are heading into this campaign the favorites once again. But we are not here to talk about favorites and relegation teams, but instead look at the fixtures that could earn you some dollars, euros, pounds, whatever currency your country uses. This weekly segment will pick three games, two games to go after and one game to avoid. So let's get started with the games to bet on.
Fixtures To Bet On
Liverpool vs. Leeds United
Saturday, September 12th
10:30 AM CST
Anfield Stadium
Last Meeting: Nov. 29th, 2016 Liverpool 2-0
This is a true David vs. Goliath matchup as you have the reigning champs against the newly promoted Leeds United. Patrick Bamford was great in the Championship last year, scoring a team-high sixteen goals, as was midfielder Pablo Hernandez. But Leeds is just outmatched in every aspect of the game and will be on the defensive side of midfield for the majority of the match. No Oxlade-Chamberlain for Liverpool, and possibly no Jordan Henderson will be tough, but with Mo Salah and Sadio Mane up front Liverpool still has plenty of firepower. Virgil Van Dijk will contain Bamford, but Leeds will find a way to get on the score sheet, which will be huge for their confidence moving forward in the top flight. Despite a goal given up, Liverpool will comfortably take this game and the three points.
Prediction: Liverpool 3 Leeds United 0
Chelsea vs. Brighton & Hove Albion
Monday, September 14th
1:15 PM CST
Amex Stadium
Last Meeting: January 1st, 2020 1-1 draw
Chelsea just squeaked into the top four last year, earning the final Champions League spot. Their biggest concern last year was their back four, as they gave up fifty-four goals last season, which was the most out of the teams that finished in the top ten overall. Chelsea completely revamped their roster in the transfer window though, bringing in talents like Thiago Silva (OUT), Kai Havertz, and Timo Werner. While it may take time for all these pieces to gel, Brighton finished just fifteenth in the league last year. With limited transfer signings, this team is not much better, meaning Chelsea should take this one comfortably. Look for American Christian Pulisic to score a goal (if he plays) in this one and Chelsea's keeper (whoever that may be) will pick up an early clean sheet.
Prediction: Chelsea 3 Brighton & Hove Albion 0
Fixture To Avoid
Sheffield United vs. Wolverhampton
Sunday, September 13th
11:00 AM CST
Bramall Lane
Last Meeting: July 8th Sheffield United 1-0
This is just a matchup I would not be looking to put money on, as these teams finished within five points of each other last season. Not only that, but in the last two years, these teams met up three times with each earning a victory and a 1-1 draw. Wolverhampton finished with a +11 goal differential, compared to Sheffields 0, so they have more scoring power. Raul Jimenez led Wolves with 17 goals, whereas Sheffield had more of a balanced attack, with no player scoring more than six. If I had to bet on this match I would lean Wolves, but overall I would say betters beware.
Prediction: Wolverhampton 2 Sheffield United 1