The Premier League returned with a bang after the international break, and Saturday saw eight matches packed with action. With five games kicking off at the traditional 3pm slot, both defending champions Manchester City and Liverpool were in the spotlight, looking to maintain their unbeaten runs.
With so much going on, it’s easy to miss some of the key stats and standout performances. Here’s a rundown of the best stories and statistics from the day.
Another Record Tumbles for Erling Haaland
Erling Haaland’s rise to footballing superstardom continues as the Norwegian striker set yet another record this weekend. While he didn’t notch his third consecutive hat-trick, Haaland surpassed Wayne Rooney’s record for the most goals scored in the first four games of a Premier League season. Rooney set the bar with eight goals in 2011/12, but Haaland has now gone one better.
In his debut season, Haaland scored six goals in his first four games, and he matched that tally last year. This season, he’s raised the stakes: after a goal in the first game, back-to-back hat-tricks followed, before he added a brace in the latest match to set the new record.
Ederson Edges Closer to Record
While Haaland grabbed the headlines, Manchester City’s goalkeeper Ederson was quietly setting his own mark. With a long ball over the top, Ederson assisted Haaland for his second goal of the match, marking his fourth Premier League assist. This brings him just one shy of Paul Robinson’s record for the most assists by a goalkeeper.
Interestingly, all of Ederson’s assists have come at the Etihad Stadium, with one occurring every other season since he arrived in England.
Liverpool’s Shock Defeat
Liverpool’s unbeaten run came to a surprising end as they fell 1-0 to Nottingham Forest at Anfield. The Reds had gone 24 Premier League matches following an international break with only one defeat, but that record was shattered by Forest, who claimed their first win at Anfield since 1969.
Callum Hudson-Odoi was the hero for Forest, scoring a beautiful curling effort after a swift counter-attack in the second half. Anthony Elanga provided the assist, sending Forest into the history books.
Raul Jimenez Haunts West Ham—Again
Raul Jimenez continued his impressive scoring record against West Ham United. Since his arrival in the Premier League in 2018, Jimenez has played 10 games against the Hammers and has now scored six goals, the latest coming in Fulham’s victory over West Ham on Saturday.
Five of those goals have come at home, and Jimenez has scored in both of his appearances against West Ham in a Fulham shirt, cementing his status as their bogeyman.
Jean-Philippe Mateta and Selhurst Park: A Perfect Duo
Jean-Philippe Mateta has thrived under new Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner, and Saturday’s match against Leicester was no exception. Trailing 2-0, Palace looked set for defeat before Mateta stepped up, scoring twice—including a late penalty—to salvage a point for the Eagles.
Mateta’s incredible form at Selhurst Park continues, as 14 of his 15 goals under Glasner have come at home. His second goal, an injury-time penalty, secured Palace’s second point of the season.
Brighton’s Toothless Attack
Brighton’s unbeaten start under Fabian Hurzeler stretched to another week, but the Seagulls were left frustrated after a goalless draw against Ipswich Town. Despite dominating the game with 21 shots and an xG of 1.73, Brighton were unable to find the back of the net.
This wasn’t the first time Brighton have struggled to convert chances. Last season, they had similar matches, including a goalless draw against West Ham where they failed to score from 22 shots.
The Premier League is back, and with it, a reminder of the drama, records, and unexpected results that make it the most exciting league in the world. Stay tuned as more twists and turns are sure to come!
