Premier League: Sunderland, Tottenham Kick Off Campaign With Big Wins

16 Aug 2025, 16:25 by Ernest Victor · Naija News

Tottenham Hotspur and newly promoted Sunderland opened their Premier League seasons with emphatic 3-0 victories on Saturday, setting an early tone in what promises to be a fiercely contested campaign.

At the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Thomas Frank enjoyed a dream start in his first Premier League home match as Spurs manager.

Richarlison struck twice, in the 10th and 60th minutes, before Brennan Johnson sealed the win with a composed finish in the 66th minute. Burnley, freshly returned to the top flight, were given a rude awakening as their defence struggled to cope with Tottenham’s relentless pressure.

Meanwhile, Sunderland triumphantly returned to the Premier League with a commanding 3-0 win over West Ham United at the Stadium of Light.

After a tense first half, Eliezer Mayenda broke the deadlock in the 61st minute, followed by Daniel Ballard’s header in the 73rd. Wahi Isidor added a stoppage-time goal in the 92nd minute to cap off a memorable afternoon for the Black Cats.

The result sparked jubilant scenes among home fans, who have waited years to see Sunderland back at the top level. The team’s resolute defending in the final stages ensured a clean sheet.

Elsewhere, Brighton were left frustrated after conceding a last-gasp equaliser in a 1-1 draw with Fulham.

Matt O’Riley’s 55th-minute penalty looked set to hand the Seagulls victory, but Rodrigo Muniz stunned the home crowd with a dramatic 96th-minute strike. Fulham will feel fortunate to leave with a point, having been second-best for most of the contest.