The American Express Community Stadium will host a thrilling encounter as Brighton take on Arsenal in the Premier League’s late kickoff on Saturday, January 4, 2025. Africa Football’s editor Allan Damba looks into the upcoming match, providing prediction and betting tips.
For Brighton, this will be their first game of the new year, while Arsenal already began 2025 with a commanding 3-1 win over Brentford on January 1. Goals from Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, and Mikel Merino sealed the Gunners’ victory.
Arsenal are firmly in the title race, sitting second in the table with 39 points from 19 matches. They are six points behind leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand. A win against Brighton would keep the Gunners in contention for the Premier League crown.
Brighton, on the other hand, have seen their form dip after a promising start to the season. They are winless in their last seven matches, with four consecutive draws. The Seagulls currently sit 10th in the table with 27 points. Their last game ended in a 2-2 draw with Aston Villa on December 30, with goals from Simon Adingra and Tariq Lamptey.
Our Prediction for Brighton vs Arsenal
Arsenal are unbeaten in their last six away games across all competitions, winning four of them. Meanwhile, Brighton are struggling for wins and have drawn their last three matches.
We predict an Away (Arsenal) Win, with odds of 1.80 on 1xBet.
For a safer option, punters can bet on Both Teams to Score (YES) at odds of 1.64 on 1xBet. Arsenal have scored 12 goals in their last five games, while Brighton have netted six during the same period.
Brighton Recent Form Analysis
Brighton are winless in their last five games, recording four draws and one loss. They have scored six goals and conceded eight, signaling a decline from their strong early-season form.
• Last Five Games: 4 draws, 1 loss
• Latest Result: Aston Villa 2-2 Brighton
Arsenal Recent Form Analysis
Arsenal come into this match on a high after a 3-1 away win against Brentford. Their last defeat came on November 6 against Inter Milan. They are on a four-game winning streak, with their last draw being a 0-0 result against Everton on December 14.
• Last Five Games: 4 wins, 1 draw
• Latest Result: Brentford 1-3 Arsenal
Player to Watch
Carlos Baleba: The young Brighton midfielder has become one of the Premier League’s standout players despite being only in his second season. With 18 appearances, he is the engine of Brighton’s midfield, excelling in both defensive work and passing. Baleba has also contributed three goals and two assists this season.
Best Odds and Betting Tips
Here are the top betting tips for this match:
• Away (Arsenal) Win at 1.80 on 1xBet
• Both Teams to Score (YES) at 1.64 on 1xBet