AFCON 2025
It was a dramatic day in the Premier League with Tottenham starting the new era under Thomas Frank in emphatic style, Sunderland making a dream return to the top flight, and Brighton left frustrated by a stoppage-time equaliser.
Tottenham 3–0 Burnley
Tottenham wasted no time laying down a marker as they swept aside newly promoted Burnley in north London. Richarlison was the star of the show, striking twice to put Spurs firmly in control.
The Brazilian opened the scoring after just 10 minutes, steering in a Mohamed Kudus cross, before adding a stunning volley midway through the second half.
Brennan Johnson then wrapped up the points moments later with a cool finish following a Burnley error in midfield.
The game also saw the Premier League’s new “eight-second goalkeeper rule” enforced for the first time, with Burnley’s Martin Dubravka penalised early on.
For Spurs, the performance was a statement of intent and a perfect start to life under Frank.
Sunderland 3–0 West Ham
At the Stadium of Light, newly promoted Sunderland stunned West Ham with a commanding display that sent their fans into raptures. Eliezer Mayenda opened the scoring with a clever header after Omar Alderete’s assist, before defender Dan Ballard doubled the advantage.
French forward Wilson Isidor then sealed a memorable victory late on, ensuring Sunderland capped their Premier League return in style.
The win briefly lifted them to the top of the table, underlining their confidence and momentum as they look to establish themselves back in the division.
Brighton 1–1 Fulham
Brighton thought they had done enough to secure three points at the Amex, but were denied by a last-gasp equaliser. After a VAR intervention had earlier ruled out a goal for Yankuba Minteh, Matt O’Riley put the Seagulls ahead from the penalty spot just before the hour mark following a foul on Georginio Rutter.
Fulham, however, never gave up, and deep into stoppage time Rodrigo Muniz smashed home from a corner to snatch a dramatic point. In a bizarre twist, the striker leapt into the stands to celebrate—only to find himself surrounded by Brighton supporters.
