GW21 – Tuesday 6th – Thursday 8th January 2026
After a high-scoring GW20 that delivered 32 goals, Matchweek 21 follows quickly with another short turnaround. Historically, this period of the season tends to remain goal-friendly, particularly as defensive fatigue sets in and deeper squads continue to rotate more effectively.
The algorithm-based score predictions for GW21 below are based on a) the current overall EPL Leaderboard, b) Recent form (last 6 matches) and c) Away performances (to factor in the clubs that perform better away from home). GW21 is assumed to contain more goals than a typical GW (like GW20). FISO Goals is the EPL Predictions game for FISO Forum Members. Why not give it a shot?
⚽ West Ham United vs Nottingham Forest
Prediction: West Ham 2–1 Nottingham Forest
Both sides are struggling defensively, but West Ham’s home advantage and Forest’s poor away record suggest the hosts can edge a match likely to feature goals.
⚽ Bournemouth vs Tottenham Hotspur
Prediction: Bournemouth 1–2 Tottenham
Spurs’ away form remains stronger than their league position suggests. Bournemouth can score at home, but Tottenham’s attacking quality should prove decisive.
⚽ Brentford vs Sunderland
Prediction: Brentford 2–1 Sunderland
Brentford are more reliable at home and create enough chances to outscore Sunderland, who remain difficult to beat but rarely dominate matches.
⚽ Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa
Prediction: Crystal Palace 1–2 Aston Villa
Villa continue to score consistently and cope well with tight schedules. Palace are capable at home but may struggle to contain Villa’s attacking momentum.
⚽ Everton vs Wolverhampton Wanderers
Prediction: Everton 2–0 Wolves
Wolves remain the lowest scorers in the league, while Everton’s home performances are solid. A rare clean sheet looks possible here despite Wolves’ recent improved results.
⚽ Fulham vs Chelsea
Prediction: Fulham 1–1 Chelsea
Chelsea’s tendency to draw continues, and Fulham are competitive at home. Neither side looks reliable enough to justify a strong win prediction.
⚽ Manchester City vs Brighton & Hove Albion
Prediction: Man City 3–1 Brighton
City’s attacking numbers remain elite and Brighton concede chances away from home. With short rest again favouring deeper squads, City should score freely.
⚽ Burnley vs Manchester United
Prediction: Burnley 1–2 Man United
Burnley’s defensive issues persist, and United should create enough chances despite inconsistency and missing Bruno & Mbueno. A narrow away win is expected.
⚽ Newcastle United vs Leeds United
Prediction: Newcastle 2–1 Leeds
Leeds continue to play open football, which suits Newcastle’s attacking strengths at home. Goals at both ends look likely.
⚽ Arsenal vs Liverpool
Prediction: Arsenal 2–2 Liverpool
The standout fixture of the round. Both sides are strong going forward, and with fatigue in play, defensive solidity may suffer. A high-quality, high-scoring draw feels the most balanced outcome.
📊 GW21 Predictions Table
| Fixture | Score Prediction | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| West Ham vs Nottingham Forest | 2–1 | Medium |
| Bournemouth vs Tottenham | 1–2 | Medium |
| Brentford vs Sunderland | 2–1 | Medium |
| Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa | 1–2 | Medium |
| Everton vs Wolves | 2–0 | Medium–High |
| Fulham vs Chelsea | 1–1 | Low |
| Man City vs Brighton | 3–1 | High |
| Burnley vs Man United | 1–2 | Medium |
| Newcastle vs Leeds | 2–1 | Medium |
| Arsenal vs Liverpool | 2–2 | Medium–High |
GW21 Summary
- Expected total goals: ~28–32
- Best confidence picks: Man City, Everton
- Most volatile fixture: Arsenal vs Liverpool
- Draw potential remains high, but with goals again favoured