The Premier League midweek fixtures delivered a feast of football, showcasing thrilling goals, historic performances, and drama-filled encounters as teams ushered in the festive season. From Mohamed Salah’s record-breaking display to Kevin De Bruyne’s midfield dominance and Chelsea’s impressive comeback, the action kept fans on the edge of their seats. Here’s a detailed roundup of the most captivating moments from Wednesday’s matches.
Mohamed Salah’s Historic Brilliance
Liverpool’s talisman Mohamed Salah once again demonstrated why he is among the greatest players to grace the Premier League. Salah was directly involved in all three of Liverpool’s goals during their hard-fought 3-2 victory over Newcastle United. Scoring twice and providing an assist, the Egyptian shattered Wayne Rooney’s long-standing record by becoming the first player in Premier League history to score and assist in 37 matches.
Mohamed Salah has now scored AND assisted in more Premier League games than any other player in the competition’s history (37).
The Egyptian King breaks Wayne Rooney’s record having played 214 fewer games than the Englishman. pic.twitter.com/aysdQ0JR04
— Squawka (@Squawka) December 4, 2024
His remarkable performance against Newcastle only adds to his stellar record against the Magpies, with 17 goal involvements in his last 14 league appearances against them. Salah’s scoring streak now extends to seven consecutive league matches, propelling him ahead of Erling Haaland as this season’s top scorer.
With his contract set to expire in the summer, Liverpool fans are desperate to see their talisman remain at Anfield. His consistency and brilliance continue to elevate Liverpool’s status in the league.
Kevin De Bruyne Showcases His Class
Manchester City returned to winning ways with a commanding 3-0 triumph over Nottingham Forest, thanks in large part to Kevin De Bruyne’s brilliance. The Belgian playmaker, returning to the starting lineup after an injury-plagued spell, orchestrated the game with his signature style and precision.
De Bruyne assisted Bernardo Silva’s opener before doubling City’s lead with a stunning goal. This performance was a testament to his ability to seamlessly combine scoring and creating opportunities. Impressively, in seven of his last eight scoring appearances, he has also provided an assist.
— Manchester City (@ManCity) December 4, 2024
De Bruyne’s influence extends beyond statistics; Manchester City remain unbeaten in the last 31 Premier League games he has started. His return is a significant boost for Pep Guardiola as City aim to solidify their dominance at the top of the table.
Chelsea’s Resurgence Led by Enzo Fernandez
Chelsea continued their revival under Mauricio Pochettino with a convincing 4-1 victory over Southampton, a performance powered by the creative brilliance of Enzo Fernandez. The Argentine midfielder has found his rhythm, becoming a central figure in Chelsea’s attacking setup.
Enzo Fernandez’s last five games for Chelsea:
️️️ vs. Noah
️ vs. Arsenal
⚽️ vs. Leicester
⚽ vs. Aston Villa
️ vs. SouthamptonHe just can’t stop! #SOUCHE pic.twitter.com/h8qFBaEpns
— Squawka Live (@Squawka_Live) December 4, 2024
Fernandez’s assist for Axel Disasi’s opener was his seventh of the season across all competitions, with six coming in his last five appearances. His hat-trick of assists in a Europa Conference League match earlier this month further highlighted his growing confidence and impact.
As Chelsea continue to rebuild, Fernandez’s form is a promising sign for fans eager to see the Blues regain their former glory.
Southampton’s Costly Defensive Errors
Southampton’s defensive woes were once again on full display as they fell 4-1 to Chelsea. A misplaced pass from goalkeeper Joe Lumley gifted Christopher Nkunku a goal, one of several costly errors that have plagued Southampton’s season. In total, the Saints have committed nine mistakes leading directly to goals—more than any other team in Europe’s top five leagues.
Despite an impressive 91.9% passing accuracy in the first half, Southampton trailed 3-1 at halftime. The stats underscore a recurring issue for the team, suggesting a need for tactical adjustments if they hope to turn their season around.
Cole Palmer: Chelsea’s Record Breaker
Chelsea’s victory over Southampton was capped by Cole Palmer’s late goal, a historic moment that secured his place in the club’s annals. Palmer has now been directly involved in 36 Premier League goals in 2024, equaling the record set by Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink in 2001 for the most goal involvements in a calendar year.
Most Premier League goals + assists in a calendar year for Chelsea:
◎ 36 – Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink (2001)
◉ 36 – Cole Palmer (2024)One more for a new outright record. pic.twitter.com/sG2XfheO3e
— Squawka (@Squawka) December 4, 2024
The young forward’s consistent performances have solidified his status as one of Chelsea’s most exciting talents, providing hope for a bright future under Pochettino.
Anthony Gordon’s Big Six Heroics
Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon continues to shine against the Premier League’s elite. In 10 home games against the Big Six, Gordon has delivered nine goal involvements, cementing his reputation as a big-game player.
Gordon’s clinical finish against Liverpool gave Newcastle a brief 2-1 lead, showcasing his ability to step up when it matters most. Despite the result, his performances remain a bright spot in Newcastle’s season.
Ashley Young’s Historic Milestone
Everton’s 3-0 demolition of Wolves featured a landmark moment for Ashley Young, who scored his 50th Premier League goal. At 39 years and 148 days, Young became the oldest player in Premier League history to reach this milestone.
His sublime free-kick was a reminder that age is no barrier to excellence, as the veteran continues to deliver for Everton in crucial moments.
Wolves’ Defensive Woes
Wolves’ defensive vulnerabilities were laid bare once again as they suffered a heavy defeat against Everton. Craig Dawson’s two own goals marked a humiliating low point, making him only the fifth player in Premier League history to score twice in his own net during a single game.
Having conceded six goals in their last two matches, Wolves face a growing crisis at the back. Addressing their defensive frailties will be essential if they hope to climb the table in the coming weeks.
Festive Fixtures Promise More Drama
As the Premier League enters the festive season, the midweek matches have set the stage for an exhilarating period of football. Mohamed Salah’s brilliance, Kevin De Bruyne’s return to form, and Chelsea’s youthful resurgence offer a tantalizing glimpse of what’s to come.
With the competition heating up, fans can look forward to more drama, goals, and unforgettable moments in the weeks ahead. The Premier League’s reputation as the world’s most exciting football league remains firmly intact.
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