Matchweek 31 Premier League predictions and top tips: anticipation for the Manchester derby, Chelsea's safety net, and underdogs to impress with goals
This week in the EPL, two matchweeks are scheduled, making it challenging for teams to handle such a schedule, but there are plenty of betting options. Here are previews and tips for some of the upcoming matches.
Everton vs Arsenal. Don't expect a spectacle. 04/05/2025
Experienced teams face off, with Arsenal being a slight favorite. However, it's not so straightforward, as the odds on the visitors are gradually increasing. Practically everything is decided for the clubs in the league. Everton has nothing to gain but won't be relegated, and they're in good form. As for Arsenal, thinking about the championship is pointless for the Londoners, but the matches against Real Madrid in the Champions League are much more interesting, with a chance to compete for the trophy. I expect a lot of physical contact, which will affect the entertainment value, and without tournament motivation, it's harder.
In tactical terms, Moyes and Arteta shouldn't surprise each other, and the number of dangerous moments will be minimal. The outcome could be anything, but I'm expecting few goals. This is one of those cases where betting on a boring match seems logical.
Bet on the match - total under 2.5 goals at 1.6.
Ipswich vs Wolverhampton. Hosts will try to cling to hope. 04/05/2025
Not the most interesting match in terms of hype, as clubs from the lower part of the table face off, clearly outclassed by many competitors in terms of name and fame. The intriguing part is that bookmakers don't highlight a favorite, meaning there's potential for intrigue.
It's worth noting that this is a battle of direct competitors, if you can call teams separated by 9 points in the standings so. A win for Ipswich would become a small hope for salvation, as the gap would shrink to 6 points, which they'd need to overcome in seven matchweeks. This is realistically possible, but I don't believe in such a miracle. I expect a fight for victory from Wolverhampton, who will try to resolve all questions about staying in the top tier and intends to avenge their home loss in the first round. I think the game will be end-to-end, with each team having dangerous moments.
Bet on the match - both teams to score – yes at 1.81.
Aston Villa vs Nottingham Forest. Expect an intriguing battle. 04/05/2025
A very interesting pair for EPL enthusiasts, even though there are no representatives from the 'big six' here. Both teams are progressing, playing substantial football, earning the admiration of neutral fans.
Aston Villa is considered a slight favorite, primarily because they're playing at home, although Nottingham is very dangerous this season, not paying attention to who they play against, and steadily moving towards their goal.
Predicting the scenario of such a match is hard; much will depend on the realization of chances. Both opponents have serious tournament motivation, although the hosts might be distracted by thoughts of the upcoming Champions League match. Regardless of the outcome, it's worth expecting high scoring. I think the teams will play end-to-end.
Bet on the match - total over 2.5 goals at 1.81.
Brentford vs Chelsea. An intriguing London derby. 04/06/2025
London derbies are a common occurrence in the EPL, given the number of capital clubs in the league. Brentford and Chelsea aren't considered fierce rivals, although their matches often involve tough battles.
The 'Bees' are having a solid mid-table season, and a mid-table finish can also be considered a good result. It's hard to say what Brentford's goal is, perhaps the club wants to finish in the top ten, which is three points away, though the team isn't in top form right now. Chelsea is currently in the top four but could fall out if Newcastle wins their game in hand. The fight for a Champions League spot could continue until the last matchweek. Given the money invested, the 'Blues' are expected to deliver results here and now, not in the future. Enzo Maresca's squad is in good shape, ready to meet their objectives in the league, and the upcoming battle will be tough, even though Chelsea is a slight favorite.
Bet on the match - Chelsea to win with a handicap 0 at 1.63.
Manchester United vs Manchester City. The central battle of the week promises many goals. 04/06/2025
Even though both clubs aren't in the top four of the EPL, this is the central battle of the week due to the fame and reputation of the teams. Of course, primarily, we're looking at a derby where more than three points are at stake. In the first round, MU won an almost lost match by scoring two goals at the end, and similar intrigue is expected this time around.
From a tournament perspective, the 'Citizens' have higher motivation as they continue to fight for the top four, while MU has nothing to play for. Essentially, both clubs have failed this season in the EPL, but matches like these always have a special vibe, and fans forgive a lot for such victories. The 'Red Devils' should focus more on European competitions, while Man City has a chance to take the FA Cup; all this is in the future, but in the derby, no one will hold back. Bookmakers give a slight edge to Guardiola's squad, but predicting the events is difficult. I think the teams can deliver high scoring.
Bet on the match - total over 2.5 goals at 1.68.
If you combine all the listed events into an accumulator, the odds will exceed 14, providing a good opportunity to increase your bankroll. Here, everyone decides for themselves whether to heed the advice, but the betting options are attractive.
Manuel Chávez
Dailysports's expert
