Friday night action sees Manchester United host Newcastle United at 9:00 p.m. United have slipped back into inconsistency, winning just two of their last eight after a narrow defeat at Aston Villa. Newcastle arrive frustrated after surrendering a two-goal lead in a 2–2 draw with Chelsea. With both sides chasing European places, early pressure is already building.
Saturday begins at 1:30 p.m. as Manchester City travel to the City Ground to face Nottingham Forest. City are in blistering form, winning five straight to close within two points of leaders Arsenal. Forest, hovering above the relegation zone, are coming off a narrow defeat at Fulham and face a stern test against Erling Haaland and the league’s most clinical attack.
At 4:00 p.m., league leaders Arsenal welcome Brighton to the Emirates. Arsenal secured a gritty win at Everton to remain top at Christmas, but Brighton have often proven awkward opponents. With the title race finely balanced, Arsenal will be keen to avoid any slip against a Brighton side fresh from a goalless draw.
Kicking off at the same time, Liverpool host bottom-placed Wolves at Anfield, live on SS Football (GOtv Ch. 61, DStv Ch. 205). Liverpool’s win at Tottenham has reignited their top-four push, while Wolves remain rooted to the bottom after eleven straight defeats. The Reds will be expected to dominate, though the festive schedule allows little room for complacency.
Saturday’s standout fixture follows at 6:30 p.m. as Chelsea host Aston Villa in a heavyweight top-four clash. Villa arrive as the league’s most in-form side, with seven straight wins and recent victories over Arsenal and Manchester United. Chelsea, meanwhile, continue to search for consistency after just one win in five.
The round concludes on Sunday at 5:30 p.m. with Crystal Palace hosting Tottenham. Spurs’ season continues to unravel after another defeat to Liverpool, leaving them 14th. Palace were humbled by Leeds last time out but remain competitive in the top half and will look to capitalise against a Tottenham side short on confidence.
Friday, Dec 26
Saturday, Dec 27
Sunday, Dec 28
All matches across Matchday 18 will be shown live on SuperSport on DStv and GOtv. Stream every match live on DStv Stream or GOtv Stream. Don’t forget to also catch all the AFCON games this weekend as well on SS AFCON (DStv ch. 202 and GOtv ch. 59).Upgrade or stay connected via the MyDStv or MyGOtv app, dial *288#, or visit the official websites.