Premier League Predictions: 3 Huge Fixtures That Could See Shock Results This Weekend

 

The English Premier League (EPL) is entering the "business end" of the 2025/2026 season, and as the pressure mounts, the potential for upsets increases exponentially. On Saturday, February 28, 2026, football analysts and fans alike are bracing for a weekend that could redefine both the title race and the battle for survival. While the "Big Six" often dominate the headlines, the current form of several mid-table and struggling sides suggests that we are in for some massive surprises.

​In this weekend’s lineup, three specific fixtures stand out as potential "banana skins" for the favorites. Whether it is a top-four contender facing a revitalized underdog or a title challenger dealing with fatigue, the following matches are the ones most likely to produce shock results that will leave fantasy football managers and punters in disbelief.

​1. Arsenal vs. Chelsea: The London Derby Danger

​The standout fixture of the weekend is undoubtedly the North London vs. West London clash at the Emirates. While Arsenal currently sits at the summit of the table, their recent history in high-stakes derbies has been a mix of brilliance and nerves. Chelsea, described by many—including club legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink—as a "strange team" this season, has a knack for rising to the occasion against elite opposition.

​Why a Shock is Possible:

​Chelsea has struggled for consistency against lower-ranked teams, but under the tactical guidance of their current setup, they have become defensive masters in big games. If the Blues can frustrate Mikel Arteta’s men in the first 30 minutes, the pressure of the title race could start to weigh heavily on the Gunners. With Arsenal missing key defensive personnel due to recent knocks, a Chelsea counter-attack spearheaded by their pacy wingers could easily result in a 1-0 or 2-1 upset for the visitors.

​2. Manchester City vs. Real Madrid (UCL Hangover Factor)

​While the Manchester City fixture this weekend is a domestic one, the psychological shadow of their impending Champions League Round of 16 clash with Real Madrid cannot be ignored. Pep Guardiola is notorious for heavy squad rotation when European fixtures loom large, and this has historically led to dropped points against disciplined Premier League opponents.

​The Underdog Opportunity:

​City’s opponents this weekend are a side that specializes in the "low block." If Guardiola rests stars like Erling Haaland or Kevin De Bruyne to keep them fresh for the Bernabéu, they risk losing the clinical edge required to break down stubborn defenses. We have seen it before: City dominates 80% of possession but concedes on a set-piece or a long ball. A draw or a narrow loss for the Citizens would be the biggest story of the weekend, handing a massive advantage to their title rivals.

​3. Liverpool vs. "The Relegation Fighters"

​Liverpool’s pursuit of a top-four finish has been a rollercoaster in 2026. This weekend, they face a team currently sitting in the bottom three—a scenario that often spells trouble for the Reds. Historically, teams fighting for their lives in the Premier League produce "cup final" performances in late February and March.

​Tactical Vulnerability:

​Liverpool’s high defensive line remains a high-risk, high-reward strategy. For a team fighting relegation, the blueprint is simple: defend deep and exploit the space behind the full-backs. If the Reds fail to convert their early chances, the frustration at Anfield can become palpable, emboldening the underdog to snatch a late winner or a hard-fought draw. A failure to take three points here could be the final nail in Liverpool’s Champions League hopes for next season.

​Conclusion: Expect the Unexpected

​The Premier League is the most-watched league in the world because of its inherent unpredictability. This weekend, the combination of tactical mismatches, European distractions, and relegation desperation has created a "perfect storm" for upsets. As we move into the Sunday fixtures, keep a close eye on these three games—they are the most likely to provide the drama that defines the 2025/2026 campaign.