As we enter the final stretch of the 2025/26 Premier League season, Matchday 34 presents a pivotal slate of fixtures that could define the European qualification spots and the desperate fight for survival at the bottom. With Manchester City and Arsenal locked in a stalemate at the summit, every point is now precious.
In this article, Sporting Tribune predicts the matchday 34 using the strengths and weaknesses as the game draws to an end.
The Midweek Recap
Before looking ahead to the weekend, it is worth noting that some Matchday 34 fixtures have already concluded:
Brighton 3-0 Chelsea:
The Seagulls dominated a struggling Chelsea side, further cementing their push for a Europa League spot while leaving the Blues in the bottom half.
Burnley 0-1 Manchester City:
A gritty victory for the defending champions, piling pressure on Arsenal.
Bournemouth 2-2 Leeds United:
A spirited draw that keeps both sides relatively safe in mid-table.
The weekend games
Sunderland vs Nottingham Forest
Sunderland’s return to the top flight has been nothing short of spectacular. Sitting 11th, they still harbour outside hopes of European football. However, Forest arrived on Wearside fresh from a vital win over Burnley and are currently unbeaten in their last five.
Prediction: Sunderland 1-2 Nottingham Forest
Fulham vs Aston Villa
Fulham appear to be coasting towards the finish line, having struggled for goals recently. Conversely, Unai Emery’s Villa are locked in a fierce battle with Manchester United for third place. Following a high-scoring thriller against Sunderland last week, expect Villa to be clinical here.
Prediction: Fulham 0-2 Aston Villa
Wolves vs Tottenham
Following Monday night’s goalless draw away to Crystal Palace, Wolves were officially dumped out of the top tier. It’s been a painful campaign for a team who’ve been rooted to the foot of the table for almost the entire stretch, barring a Gameweek 2 climb into 19th based on West Ham’s inferior goal difference.
Prediction: Wolves 0-1 Tottenham
West Ham United vs Everton
A massive clash for the Hammers, who sit 17th and are desperate to pull away from the relegation zone. Everton have been inconsistent under David Moyes, but their ability to snatch results on the road makes them dangerous.
Prediction: West Ham 1-0 Everton
Arsenal vs Newcastle United
After the disappointment of losing to Man City last week, Mikel Arteta’s men cannot afford another slip-up. Newcastle have found some form recently, winning their last two, and will look to exploit any lingering nerves in the Gunners’ camp.
Prediction: Arsenal 2-1 Newcastle United
Liverpool vs Crystal Palace
It has been a transitional season for the Reds, but a recent Merseyside derby win has boosted morale.
They face a Palace side looking to provide a strong send-off for Oliver Glasner, but Anfield’s atmosphere should carry the hosts through.
Prediction: Liverpool 2-0 Crystal Palace
Manchester United vs Brentford
United are well-positioned for a top-four finish under Michael Carrick. They face the “Draw Specialists” of the league. Brentford have shared the spoils in their last five matches.
While the Bees are tough to beat, United’s individual quality at home should break the deadlock.
Prediction: Manchester United 2-0 Brentford
