The 2025/26 Premier League season kicked off in style with drama, goals, and early storylines that already have fans buzzing. From Manchester City’s dominant return to Sunderland’s fairytale comeback, here’s the full roundup from Matchday 1 — plus a look ahead to today’s big games.
Liverpool 4–2 Bournemouth
Liverpool began their title defence with a thriller at Anfield. Hugo Ekitike and Cody Gakpo fired them into an early lead, but Antoine Semenyo stunned the champions with a quickfire brace to make it 2–2.
Federico Chiesa then restored Liverpool’s advantage before Mohamed Salah sealed it late on with a record-breaking goal. The game was overshadowed by an incident of racist abuse towards Semenyo, which led to an arrest — but the forward showed resilience with two brilliant finishes.
👉 Full match coverage – The Guardian
Manchester City 4–0 Wolves
City wasted no time reminding everyone who they are. Erling Haaland bagged a brace, new signing Tijjani Reijnders scored on debut, and Rayan Cherki added a beauty to complete the rout at Molineux.
It was an emotional night, too, as Wolves fans paid tribute to the late Diogo Jota. City now sit top of the league on goal difference, setting the tone for the season.
Tottenham 3–0 Burnley
Thomas Frank’s first game in charge of Spurs could not have gone better. Richarlison produced a stunning double, including a spectacular volley that had fans off their seats. Brennan Johnson added a third to cap off a confident display.
Burnley struggled throughout, and goalkeeper Martin Dúbravka made headlines after being penalised for a new eight-second rule — one of this season’s fresh law changes.
Sunderland 3–0 West Ham
After eight years away, Sunderland announced their return to the Premier League in style. Goals from Eliezer Mayenda, Daniel Ballard, and Wilson Isidor secured a dream victory at the Stadium of Light.
It was a statement win that suggests the Black Cats aren’t here just to survive — they want to compete.
Other Results
- Aston Villa 0–0 Newcastle – A scrappy goalless draw, Villa reduced to ten men.
- Brighton 1–1 Fulham – Rodrigo Muniz struck in stoppage time to snatch a point for Fulham.
Today’s Fixtures (Sunday, August 17)
The action continues with three more big matches:
- Chelsea vs Crystal Palace – 14:00 UK, Stamford Bridge
👉 How to watch – AS.com - Nottingham Forest vs Brentford – 14:00 UK, City Ground
- Manchester United vs Arsenal – 16:30 UK, Old Trafford
👉 Preview – AS.com
Early Talking Points
- City look ruthless — Haaland is already in full flow.
- Liverpool shaky at the back — but still found a way.
- Spurs bounce — Frank’s arrival has breathed fresh life into the squad.
- Sunderland’s fairytale — back with a bang in the top flight.
- Big clashes today — especially United vs Arsenal, a fixture that always delivers drama.