Premier League Gameweek 17: Top First Goal Scorer Bets That Could Pay Off Big
The concluding round of Premier League matches ahead of Christmas has arrived, featuring all 20 teams competing across Saturday through Monday this weekend.
Arsenal possess the opportunity to secure their position as Christmas Day table-toppers, a historically meaningful achievement in title race discussions. However, Manchester City and Aston Villa are closely pursuing them, both seeking wins against West Ham and Manchester United respectively.
Liverpool will attempt to maintain their winning momentum without Mohamed Salah due to Africa Cup of Nations commitments, supported by their prolific frontman. Surprisingly, not Alexander Isak!
Here are the Sports Illustrated predictions for opening goalscorers across each Premier League fixture in matchweek 17.
Newcastle United vs. Chelsea
Newcastle forward Nick Woltemade has managed just one strike since October, but facing a skilled yet youthful Chelsea squad at home presents an ideal opportunity for him to make an impact.
Bournemouth vs. Burnley
Antoine Semenyo's goal against Manchester United on Monday evening marked his seventh Premier League strike this campaign, indicating his renewed scoring touch. Additionally, Burnley possess the division's second-poorest defensive statistics.
Brighton & Hove Albion vs. Sunderland
Danny Welbeck is positioned for his most productive campaign at 35 years old, already netting seven Premier League goals. While it's been several weeks since his last strike, Sunderland have managed just one away clean sheet.
Manchester City vs. West Ham United
Manchester City enter as strong favorites versus West Ham, with Erling Haaland contributing 45% of their total Premier League goals during a campaign showcasing his peak form.
Wolverhampton Wanderers vs. Brentford
Following a sluggish beginning to his Brentford journey last season's latter half, 11-goal Igor Thiago has emerged as 2025-26's unexpected star performer. Wolves appear destined for Premier League infamy while conceding at an alarming rate.
Tottenham Hotspur vs. Liverpool
Hugo Ekitiké currently displaces Alexander Isak from Liverpool's starting eleven, raising questions about the Reds' £125 million Swedish investment. Despite Liverpool's defensive vulnerabilities, their attacking prowess remains intact, with Ekitiké delivering consecutive Premier League doubles.
Everton vs. Arsenal
Sufficiently recovered from injury to feature regularly again, Viktor Gyökeres holds strong statistical prospects for finding the net for Arsenal this weekend given his field positioning. The match dynamics could favor a player of his profile.
Leeds United vs. Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace will deploy Jean-Philippe Mateta as their spearhead. The French striker has accumulated seven Premier League goals this season and appears primed for another. Leeds struggle defensively.
Aston Villa vs. Manchester United
Aston Villa may capitalize on Manchester United's persistent defensive weaknesses, positioning Ollie Watkins favorably to open the scoring in this Villa Park clash.
Fulham vs. Nottingham Forest
Both Premier League goals scored by Raúl Jiménez this season have served as opening strikes in their respective Fulham matches, coming against Aston Villa and Sunderland.