Late drama and landmark wins light up English Premier League Saturday

SATURDAY'S round of English Premier League fixtures delivered high-stakes drama, debut successes, and milestone victories, though the highlight remains the thrilling conclusion at Stamford Bridge. 

Kudus shines as Tottenham end Leeds’ home streak

Tottenham climbed to second in the Premier League after a 2-1 win over Leeds United at Elland Road – ending the home side’s 24-game unbeaten league run.

Mohammed Kudus scored his first goal for Spurs to seal the victory, after Mathys Tel’s opener had been cancelled out by Noah Okafor for Leeds.

Under Thomas Frank, Tottenham showed improved defensive discipline to protect their lead and secure a third straight win in all competitions. The result moved them within one point of leaders Liverpool, but Arsenal still had to play later in the day.

Frank made six changes from the midweek Champions League clash against Bodo/Glimt and was rewarded with a sharper, more controlled display. Leeds, meanwhile, will regret missed chances – including a Joe Rodon header that struck the post early on.

Tel gave Spurs the lead after combining with Kudus, while Okafor equalised before half-time following an initial save from Guglielmo Vicario. The Tottenham goalkeeper later made amends with a key stoppage-time save from Joel Piroe to preserve the win.

Kudus then produced the decisive moment, cutting inside before unleashing a deflected shot past Karl Darlow. The Ghanaian’s strike extended Tottenham's unbeaten run under Frank.

Defeat leaves Leeds in 12th place with eight points from seven games.

Arsenal mark Arteta’s milestone with solid win

Arsenal then continued their strong start with a 2-0 victory over West Ham United. Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka found the net in a match that also marked a personal achievement for manager Mikel Arteta — his 300th game in charge of the Gunners.

The result keeps Arsenal among the league’s early pace-setters, maintaining their consistency in both attack and defence.

Manchester United ease pressure on Amorim

Manchester United ended a difficult run with a 2-0 win over Sunderland, a result described as crucial in easing pressure on manager Amorim. Goals from Mason Mount and Benjamin Sesko sealed the victory, while debutant Senne Lammens marked his first appearance with a clean sheet.

There were still questions around United’s tactical approach though, with calls suggesting Amorim needs to “relax” his tactical style.

Willian’s magic moment seals Chelsea win over Liverpool

Then, in what was described as a “thriller at Stamford Bridge”, Chelsea edged Liverpool 2-1.

Eighteen-year-old Estevao Willian scored a dramatic 95th-minute winner to seal the points for the home side, after Moises Caicedo had earlier opened the scoring with a long-range strike.

Despite the victory, Chelsea manager Maresca was reportedly not fully satisfied after conceding late, commenting: “It’s a shame.”

Sunday’s menu

On Sunday, October 5, the English Premier League continues with a full slate of fixtures. Aston Villa host Burnley at Villa Park, Everton take on Crystal Palace at Goodison Park, Newcastle face Nottingham Forest at St James’ Park, and Wolves meet Brighton & Hove Albion at Molineux, all starting at 4pm SA time. 

Later in the evening, Brentford welcome Manchester City to the Gtech Community Stadium, with kickoff at 6.30pm SA time.