Premier League Gameweek 18: Top First Goal Scorer Predictions That Could Pay Off Big
Gameweek 18 represents the second-to-last set of matches in the opening phase of the 2025–26 Premier League season, featuring the league's customary 'Boxing Day' fixtures.
However, just one of the nine planned encounters will actually occur on December 26th.
Here are the Sports Illustrated selections for opening goalscorer in each Premier League match during week 17.
Manchester United vs. Newcastle United
Following his double strike against Chelsea over the weekend, Manchester United's vulnerable defense should be wary of Newcastle forward Nick Woltemade. The imposing German can easily unsettle defensive lines with his physical presence and clinical finishing ability.
Nottingham Forest vs. Manchester City
Another two goals in the previous match means Erling Haaland has now netted an even greater percentage of Manchester City's Premier League strikes this campaign compared to before gameweek 17.
Arsenal vs. Brighton & Hove Albion
Viktor Gyökeres returned to scoring form from the penalty spot as Arsenal defeated Everton in their last outing, opening the scoring with what proved to be the match's sole goal.
Brentford vs. Bournemouth
Brentford striker Igor Thiago has gone four Premier League matches without finding the net. Nevertheless, statistical probability suggests he's overdue after netting 11 times in his opening 13 appearances this season.
Burnley vs. Everton
Goals have been scarce for Everton since the November international break, frequently waiting until the latter stages before scoring. At that point in matches, Beto is typically introduced from the substitutes' bench and might exploit a Burnley team expected to tire.
Liverpool vs. Wolverhampton Wanderers
Alexander Isak's injury has only reinforced Hugo Ekitiké's hold on Liverpool's first-choice striker role. The French forward broke the deadlock for the third consecutive match when the Reds defeated Spurs on Saturday.
West Ham United vs. Fulham
Jarrod Bowen has found his scoring touch in recent fixtures, finding the net in two of his past three appearances after previously going goalless in the Premier League since September. Collectively, West Ham will back themselves in this East versus West London clash.
Chelsea vs. Aston Villa
Cole Palmer is returning to full fitness and that makes him a threat. The Chelsea star managed 78 minutes against Newcastle over the weekend, his longest appearance in a single match since September. When he's at his best, the England international can conjure goals from nowhere.
Sunderland vs. Leeds United
Moving to the first of Sunday, December 28th's kickoffs, Wilson Isiodor is the player to monitor as Sunderland welcome Leeds United in a match-up not seen in the Premier League since 2002.
Crystal Palace vs. Tottenham Hotspur
Recent weeks haven't been kind to Crystal Palace, but Jean-Philippe Mateta at Selhurst Park poses sufficient threat to cause concern for a visiting Spurs team.