The countdown is on and High-Stakes Football takes center stage as the Premier League enters its final stretch only four games remain, and the battle for those prized European spots is heating up. Several teams are still in the race, and this weekend’s clashes could have a huge impact on who gets to play Champions League football next season. It’s been a rollercoaster of a season so far, and it wouldn’t be the Premier League without a few more twists before it’s over. Optus Sport breaks down the biggest talking points ahead of the upcoming matchday. High-Stakes Football.
Chelsea Face the Champions and Their Past
Chelsea fans might want to brace themselves. As Liverpool head to Stamford Bridge fresh off securing the title, the Blues will have to give the new champions a guard of honour something that will sting even more given the rivalry. After that formality, Arne Slot’s Liverpool will be looking to dent Chelsea’s European hopes. History is definitely in the Reds’ favour they’re unbeaten in their last 10 games against Chelsea, including three cup finals. That said, Enzo Maresca’s side has started to find some late-season form, jumping to fifth place after back-to-back wins. Beating Liverpool would be a huge statement and could secure their Champions League spot. High-Stakes Football.
Nottingham Forest’s Fight for Redemption
Nottingham Forest were flying high earlier in the season, even being talked about as possible title contenders. But after three losses in their last five games, they’ve fallen out of the top four for the first time since December. Now, with Champions League dreams slipping, they’ve got to dig deep. Their next test? A tough away trip to Crystal Palace, who are flying high after reaching the FA Cup final. Nuno Espirito Santo will be hoping his side can tighten things up defensively after a rough loss to Brentford last week.
Manchester City’s Statement of Intent
Crystal Palace’s FA Cup final opponent is none other than Manchester City, who are closing the season strong. After a tough campaign by their usual standards, Pep Guardiola’s team is back in the top four following three straight league wins and an unbeaten April. Next up, they face red-hot Wolves a team riding a six-game win streak and looking better than ever under Vitor Pereira. While City want a top-four finish and another trophy, they also want to remind everyone they’re not going anywhere next season.
Villa’s Champions League Hopes on the Line
Aston Villa have had a rough week. After a heavy FA Cup loss to Palace and with Marcus Rashford now out for the season, things are tense. If they want to keep their spot in the top four, they must beat Fulham in Saturday night’s early kick-off. Fulham are also pushing for a late surge into Europe, so it won’t be easy. Villa had been on a five-game winning run before losing to City, so Unai Emery will be hoping they can bounce back. With goal difference not on their side, Villa can’t afford a single slip-up.
Match Schedule on Optus Sport (AEST)
Manchester City vs Wolves – Sat, May 3 at 5am
Aston Villa vs Fulham – Sat, May 3 at 9:30pm
Everton vs Ipswich – Sun, May 4 at 12am
Leicester vs Southampton – Sun, May 4 at 12am
Arsenal vs Bournemouth – Sun, May 4 at 2:30am
Brentford vs Manchester United – Sun, May 4 at 11pm
Brighton vs Newcastle – Sun, May 4 at 11pm
West Ham vs Tottenham – Sun, May 4 at 11pm
Chelsea vs Liverpool – Mon, May 5 at 1:30am
Crystal Palace vs Nottingham Forest – Tue, May 6
