Key talking points from a quiet Boxing Day and the weekend action, as title contenders prepare for a massive December 30 showdown.
The 2025/26 Premier League festive period kicked off with the quietest Boxing Day in history—just one match due to scheduling constraints from expanded European competitions. But the action delivered: Manchester United earned a gritty 1-0 win over Newcastle at Old Trafford on December 26, thanks to Patrick Dorgu’s stunning first-half volley. Ruben Amorim’s depleted side (missing key players like Bruno Fernandes) dug deep to hold off a second-half barrage, climbing to fifth place and boosting momentum heading into the new year.
The rest of Matchweek 18 spread across December 27-28, producing mixed results for the top chasers and setting up intrigue for the final games of 2025 on December 30.
Key Boxing Day & Weekend Results
- Dec 26: Manchester United 1-0 Newcastle Dorgu’s 24th-minute screamer proved decisive; Newcastle hit the bar but couldn’t find a breakthrough on a frustrating away day.
- Dec 27 Highlights: Arsenal edged Brighton 2-1 at home (goals from Martin Ødegaard and an own goal); other notable wins included Liverpool over Wolves and Chelsea’s clash with Aston Villa producing drama.
- Dec 28: Crystal Palace vs Tottenham and Sunderland vs Leeds added promoted-team spice.
Top Talking Points
- Man United’s Gritty Revival Amorim’s switch to a back four paid off as United weathered Newcastle’s pressure for a vital clean sheet. The win snaps inconsistent form and positions them just outside the top four—next up: Wolves on Dec 30.
- Title Race Heating Up Arsenal maintained their lead with a nervy win over Brighton, but Aston Villa’s red-hot streak (multiple consecutive wins) has them breathing down the Gunners’ necks. Villa’s form makes their upcoming trip to the Emirates a potential title decider.
- Newcastle’s Away Woes Continue Eddie Howe’s side dominated possession but lacked cutting edge, extending a poor road record. They remain mid-table despite Champions League commitments.
- Festive Scheduling Debate Only one Boxing Day game sparked backlash, but the spread-out fixtures ensured player rest—though fans missed the traditional full slate.
Looking Ahead: Arsenal vs Aston Villa (Dec 30)
The blockbuster to close 2025: Leaders Arsenal host third-placed Aston Villa at the Emirates (kick-off 8:15 PM GMT / 9:15 PM WAT). Unai Emery’s Villa arrive on an incredible run, capable of drawing level on points with a win. Expect fireworks—Arsenal’s home solidity vs Villa’s counter-attacking threat.
Sports Fever Prediction: Arsenal 2-1 Aston Villa (tight, but home advantage edges it).
Which festive result surprised you most? Can Villa shock the leaders? Comment below!