The Premier League weekend of April 5–6, 2025, offered a fresh twist in the title race, the top-four battle, and the push for European places. With unexpected slip-ups and standout individual performances, here’s a roundup of the weekend’s biggest hits and misses.

 
HITS

Aston Villa’s Early Blitz Keeps European Dreams Alive

Aston Villa continued their stunning run of form with a confident 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest, making it eight wins in a row across all competitions. Quickfire goals in the 13th and 15th minutes from Morgan Rogers and Donyell Malen secured the points at Villa Park. The victory strengthens Villa’s position in the top six and narrows the gap to third-placed Forest to just six points. With European qualification now well within reach, Unai Emery’s men are peaking at the right time.

Casemiro Rolls Back the Years in Manchester Derby

While the Manchester Derby ended in a forgettable 0-0 draw, Casemiro stood tall amid the mediocrity. The Brazilian midfielder anchored Manchester United’s midfield with composure, aggression, and tactical intelligence. In a season full of injuries and inconsistency, Casemiro reminded the Premier League of his elite pedigree, intercepting play and controlling tempo against a usually dominant City midfield. United fans will hope his form continues into their Europa League campaign.

MISSES

Liverpool’s Defence Cracks in Shock Fulham Defeat

Title-chasing Liverpool were handed a wake-up call in their 3-2 defeat to Fulham at Craven Cottage. Despite an early thunderbolt from Alexis Mac Allister, defensive lapses defined the Reds’ afternoon. Virgil van Dijk was uncharacteristically outmuscled by Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz, who finished brilliantly through Caoimhin Kelleher’s legs. Later, Andy Robertson’s sloppy back-pass gifted Alex Iwobi a goal. The defeat not only ends Liverpool’s 26-match unbeaten league run but also raises serious questions about their title credentials.

Arsenal Drop More Points in Title Race at Everton

Arsenal missed a golden opportunity to close the gap on Liverpool, drawing 1-1 with Everton at Goodison Park. Despite taking the lead through Leandro Trossard, the Gunners were pegged back after a controversial penalty allowed Iliman Ndiaye to level. Mikel Arteta’s side dominated possession but couldn’t break down a resolute Everton side. With the season approaching its climax, Arsenal can’t afford many more of these slip-ups.

Chelsea’s Blunt Attack Costs Them Again

Chelsea’s 0-0 draw at Brentford highlighted a growing concern: their inability to convert possession into goals. Manager Enzo Maresca made several changes to rest key players, but the rotated side lacked spark and penetration. Despite late introductions of Cole Palmer and Pedro Neto, Chelsea couldn’t find a way through Brentford’s compact defense. Christopher Nkunku and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall failed to impress, leaving Chelsea vulnerable in the race for a top-four finish.