Premier League Matchday 1 Review: A Weekend Full of Surprises

The 2026/27 Premier League season began with a dramatic opening weekend that immediately delivered goals, shocks, late winners and impressive individual performances. The first matchday suggested that another unpredictable campaign could be in store.

One of the biggest surprises came at the MKM Stadium, where newly promoted Hull City stunned Manchester United with a 2-0 victory. United struggled to create clear opportunities, while Hull produced an organised and disciplined display to claim a memorable win.

Elsewhere, Brighton made one of the strongest statements of the weekend by destroying Aston Villa 4-0. Villa were overwhelmed before half-time, with Joao Gomes' red card making an already difficult afternoon even worse.

Brentford also enjoyed a remarkable afternoon, defeating Tottenham 3-0. Mamadou Sangaré was among the standout performers, immediately making an impression in his Premier League debut.

Manchester City needed a late comeback to overcome Bournemouth 2-1. Marc Guéhi equalised before Josko Gvardiol scored the decisive goal in stoppage time, giving Enzo Maresca a winning start as City manager.

Liverpool were involved in another dramatic encounter, rescuing a 2-2 draw against Newcastle with Dominik Szoboszlai converting a 99th-minute penalty. The result highlighted the competitiveness expected throughout the season.

Everton defeated Crystal Palace 2-0, while Ipswich secured a 2-1 victory over Sunderland thanks to Jack Clarke's late winner. Leeds also began their campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory away at Nottingham Forest.

The final match of the opening round saw Chelsea defeat Fulham 3-2 in an entertaining London derby. João Pedro scored after just 31 seconds, the fastest goal in an opening round in Premier League history, while Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer also found the net.

Matchday 1 delivered exactly what the Premier League promises: unpredictability, drama and unforgettable moments. With several favourites already dropping points and new managers making their mark, the 2026/27 season has started with plenty of intrigue.