Saturday Football Look-Ahead: Premier League & Championship Fixtures (16 August 2025)
Here’s your quick guide to Saturday’s action with verified UK kickoff times, TV info where available, and the standout storylines to watch.
Premier League — Saturday 16 August
- Aston Villa vs Newcastle United — 12:30 BST (TNT Sports). Two sides with European ambitions collide in the early kickoff. Villa’s home form has been exceptional over the last 18 months, while Newcastle arrive with a new-look midfield aiming to impose themselves from the first whistle. Expect an intense battle in wide areas with both full-back pairings heavily involved in attack.
- Brighton & Hove Albion vs Fulham — 15:00 BST. Brighton’s free-flowing attacking style will be tested against Fulham’s organised defensive shape. The Seagulls will look to exploit Fulham’s slower centre-backs with pace in behind, while Fulham’s hopes may rest on set-pieces and Aleksandar Mitrović’s physical presence. With both managers favouring quick transitions, this could be a game of sudden momentum swings.
- Sunderland vs West Ham United — 15:00 BST. Newly promoted Sunderland host West Ham in a match that promises a clash of styles. The Black Cats will be buoyed by their return to the top flight and will rely on a raucous Stadium of Light atmosphere, while West Ham’s counter-attacking threat and experience at this level could prove decisive. Midfield control will be key, with both sides looking to win second balls.
- Tottenham Hotspur vs Burnley — 15:00 BST. Spurs head into the match under pressure to start strong after an inconsistent pre-season. Burnley, while underdogs, are known for disciplined organisation and quick breaks when opportunities arise. Tottenham’s creativity in the final third will be tested, and Burnley’s ability to frustrate could make this tighter than expected.
- Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Manchester City — 17:30 BST (Sky Sports). Wolves face the ultimate test against a City side widely tipped for another title challenge. Wolves will aim to keep the game compact, relying on their physical defence and quick counters, while City’s passing game will look to break them down with relentless possession. All eyes will be on Erling Haaland’s sharpness early in the season.
- Liverpool 4–2 Bournemouth — Friday night’s emotional Premier League opener saw Liverpool overcome a spirited Bournemouth side. Goals flowed at Anfield in an action-packed contest that has set the tone for the Reds’ campaign.
Championship — Saturday 16 August
Early kickoffs (12:30 BST)
- Derby County vs Coventry City — Pride Park. Derby will look to make a statement against last season’s playoff contenders Coventry. The Rams’ attacking options have been bolstered over the summer, but Coventry’s quick front line could cause problems on the break. Expect a high-intensity midfield battle.
- Portsmouth vs Norwich City — Fratton Park. Portsmouth’s passionate home crowd will be key against a Norwich side that likes to dominate possession. Norwich will aim to stretch the play with their wingers, while Pompey may rely on set-pieces and high pressing to disrupt the visitors’ rhythm.
- Wrexham vs West Bromwich Albion — SToK Cae Ras. Wrexham’s rise through the leagues faces a stern test against an experienced West Brom side. The home team’s attacking bravery could leave gaps for the Baggies to exploit, making this one of the weekend’s most intriguing matchups.
3:00 BST kickoffs
- Blackburn Rovers vs Birmingham City — Ewood Park. Blackburn’s strong home form will be tested by a Birmingham side that has strengthened defensively. Goals may be at a premium if both sides remain cautious.
- Bristol City vs Charlton Athletic — Ashton Gate. Bristol City will seek to exploit Charlton’s lack of experience at this level, but the visitors’ energetic midfield could cause surprises if given space.
- Millwall vs Middlesbrough — The Den. Always a physical encounter, Millwall will aim to unsettle Middlesbrough early. Boro’s technical quality could shine through if they withstand the early pressure.
- Preston North End vs Leicester City — Deepdale. Leicester’s promotion push meets a Preston side known for stubborn resistance at home. The Foxes’ attacking depth could be the difference, but Preston rarely roll over.
- Sheffield Wednesday vs Stoke City — Hillsborough. Both sides are looking to climb the table after slow starts. Set-pieces may play a big role in a match where neither side wants to give away easy chances.
- Swansea City vs Sheffield United — Swansea.com Stadium. Swansea’s possession game will clash with United’s more direct style. This one could be decided by who wins the midfield duels.
How to watch
- Premier League: TNT Sports (12:30 kick-off), Sky Sports (17:30 match). Check local listings for 15:00 coverage.
- EFL Championship: Live picks across Sky Sports & Sky Sports+; some fixtures remain streaming-only. See the EFL’s weekend guide for details.
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