29th Premier League round predictions, bets, and best tips: two London derbies and two different Manchesters

This weekend in England promises to be packed with thrilling football action, especially with the Premier League matches. Five fixtures are slated for Saturday, with three more set for Sunday.

• Also read: Arsenal vs Chelsea prediction, H2H and probable lineups - March 16, 2025

Manchester City vs Brighton: Do the Seagulls stand a chance against the crisis-hit giant?

In the past, betting on a City home win was a "sure thing," regardless of the opposition. Now, it's more like a roulette game. Manchester is the favorite in this matchup, although the odds on their victory are gradually increasing. Such shifts in the betting lines are understandable, as Guardiola's men are not showing stability.

The match is also intriguing because it features direct competitors, with only one point separating them in the standings. It's likely the hosts will dominate possession, while the visitors will try to respond with dangerous counterattacks. Brighton is in good form and can challenge an opponent that clearly lacks character at the moment, despite a strong squad and a history of numerous trophies. There's a sense that the visitors will want this win more, as dreams of the Champions League could become a reality with a strong finish. The fight for the top four is openly less motivating for the "Citizens."

Bet on both teams to score – yes – 1.54.

Bournemouth vs Brentford: Who will prevail in the battle of the hard workers?

These are teams you genuinely want to root for. They don't invest colossal sums in star players but try to compensate with tactics and dedication. Bournemouth is considered the favorite since they're playing at home and are higher in the standings.

The "Cherries" have stalled slightly and haven't won in three consecutive matches, but their chances for European competition remain, as they are only three points away from the top six. In other words, motivation should be high, and it's been a good season for Bournemouth. Brentford, on the other hand, is stuck in the relegation zone, far from both the drop zone and European spots. The "Bees" are on a streak of four away victories, but before that, they hadn't won away in the Premier League this season. This will be an interesting battle between two organized teams on opposing courses, and the game could end with any outcome. I think the opponents will show productive football, as they scored five goals between them in the first round.

Bet on total over 3 goals – 1.77.

Arsenal vs Chelsea: What to expect from the London derby?

The fixture is an eye-catcher, featuring two capital clubs in the top four. The teams currently have similar objectives: to defend their positions by finishing in the top quartet. Arsenal has more of a cushion, but they can't afford to drop points now. There might be some fatigue, following midweek European games. Although the "Gunners" are favorites, it's not all cut and dried, as Arteta's men haven't won in the league for three matches straight. Chelsea has more room for maneuver, considering the squad depth that used to be a joke. Arsenal has stopped chasing the championship; both clubs should focus on European competitions, although finishing in the Premier League's top four is also a mandatory task. I think Chelsea looks no worse than their neighbors; the "Blues" are definitely capable of picking up points in such a derby. Most likely, the game will be relatively even, though Arsenal will try to seize the initiative. In the first round, I would have bet on the "Gunners," but now I don't see a clear advantage for Arteta's side.

Bet on the match X2 – 2.03.

• Read also: Fiorentina vs Juventus prediction, H2H and probable lineups - March 16, 2025

Fulham vs Tottenham: Expect spectacular football from another capital derby.

With so many London clubs in the Premier League, two derbies are happening simultaneously on March 16. In terms of prestige, this match falls short of Arsenal vs Chelsea but could be more entertaining. Some might be surprised that the nominal hosts are favorites in this matchup, considering Tottenham is part of the big six. The odds seem logical; the "Spurs" have nothing to gain in the league, having played midweek in the Europa League, and will focus on European competitions.

Fulham is five points behind the top six, with the recent defeat to direct rival Brighton proving painful, significantly reducing their chances of qualifying for European competitions. I think fans won't regret choosing this match, as I expect a real battle with plenty of goals. Keep an eye on the news, particularly on the lineup the "Spurs" will field; there's a chance Tottenham will not play with their strongest squad, which could prompt consideration of a clean win for the "Cottagers."

Bet on total over 3 goals – 1.94.

Leicester vs Manchester United: Can the Foxes defeat an unmotivated Manchester?

Although both teams are in the lower half of the standings, the match looks intriguing. Leicester is halfway to the Championship, and escaping will be difficult, as they need to make up a six-point deficit from 17th-placed Wolverhampton, who are not standing still.

The "Foxes" have higher motivation, playing at home, but have lost five consecutive Premier League matches, while the opponent undoubtedly has superior players. I anticipate an unpredictable match, where some cannot, and others do not want to. Amorim understands that there's no point in exerting themselves in the league, as MU will certainly not be relegated from the elite, nor will they achieve anything on the domestic front. The lifeline could be winning the Europa League, which not only offers a trophy but also a Champions League spot. MU has already reached the quarterfinals of the second most prestigious European competition, where they will face Lyon.

Bet on both teams to score – yes – 1.75.