Premier League Team of the Week: Sanchez, Watkins and Haaland steal the spotlight
Robert Sanchez's penalty heroics, Ollie Watkins' brilliant brace and Erling Haaland's relentless record-breaking run headline this week's Premier League standout displays.
This week's Premier League action saw unforgettable moments as stars across the pitch stepped up in crucial encounters.
Sanchez’s spectacular saves under pressure, Watkins’ inspiring comeback double for Aston Villa, and Man City goal machine Haaland’s record-shattering form are just a few of the highlights.
Dive into Sports News Blitz writer Noah Ngcobo’s Premier League Team of the Week to see who else made the cut after an action-packed round of football.
Robert Sanchez (Chelsea) – Goalkeeper
It was a tight call between Robert Sanchez and Andre Onana for the top goalkeeper spot this week, with both making crucial penalty saves in games that led to victories and clean sheets.
But Sanchez edges it, facing a relentless Bournemouth attack and making seven vital saves, including a brilliant stop from Evanilson’s penalty.
In a hard-fought 1-0 win, the Spaniard was Chelsea’s standout performer and the game’s true difference-maker.
Axel Tuanzebe (Ipswich Town) – Right-back
Ipswich made history with their first away Premier League clean sheet since 2001, and Tuanzebe was pivotal in that success.
Tasked with silencing the elusive Kaoru Mitoma, Tuanzebe excelled defensively and in attack.
He racked up seven clearances, one block, and won six of his eight duels, while also creating a big chance going forward. A complete performance from the right-back.
Matthijs de Ligt (Manchester United) – Centre-back
New signing Matthijs de Ligt made his mark with a goal and a commanding display at the back.
After a shaky start, the Dutchman settled into the game, winning three aerial duels, making six clearances, and even saving a goal off the line.
His early strike set the tone as United cruised to a 3-0 win over Southampton, capping off a strong all-around performance.
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Gabriel Magalhães (Arsenal) – Centre-back
Gabriel was a rock for Arsenal in the North London Derby, leading a resilient defensive effort that saw the Gunners edge Tottenham 1-0.
His physical presence was unmatched, with two tackles, two blocks and seven clearances.
He also popped up with the match-winning header from a Bukayo Saka corner, sealing victory over their fierce rivals.
Alex Moreno (Nottingham Forest) – Left-back
Alex Moreno had one of the toughest tasks in football - keeping Mohamed Salah quiet - and he rose to the challenge brilliantly.
On his first Premier League start for his new club, the Spaniard stuck to Salah all game, making life difficult for the Egyptian star.
Moreno's relentless effort paid off with six tackles, three interceptions, six recoveries and seven duels won.
His performance was key as Forest not only kept a clean sheet but made history with their first league win at Anfield in 55 years.
Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City) – Midfielder
Though Leicester let a two-goal lead slip against Crystal Palace, Wilfred Ndidi’s tireless effort was undeniable.
The Nigerian midfielder was everywhere, pressing high and winning balls in the final third.
His hard work was rewarded with two assists, playing a major role in both of Leicester's goals.
Mario Lemina (Wolves) – Midfielder
Despite Wolves falling short against Newcastle, Mario Lemina was a standout.
He opened the scoring after a brilliant dummy from Joao Gomes and put in a commanding performance, winning possession six times, completing two tackles, all his take-ons, and winning every aerial duel. A complete showing, even in defeat.
Emile Smith-Rowe (Fulham) – Midfielder
Emile Smith-Rowe continues to shine at Fulham, playing with a freedom that’s rekindled the spark from his early Arsenal days.
The midfielder timed his run perfectly to beat the offside trap, keeping the ball in play and delivering a precise assist to Raul Jimenez for the opening goal.
Another impressive outing for Smith-Rowe as he settles into his new club.
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Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa) – Forward
Ollie Watkins finally got off the mark this season, sparking Aston Villa's thrilling comeback against Everton.
With Villa trailing 0-2, Watkins stepped up, scoring twice to level the game before his team completed a stunning 3-2 win at home.
His brace proved crucial as the Englishman led his side from the brink of defeat to a memorable victory.
Jean-Philippe Mateta (Crystal Palace) – Forward
It was another week of dramatic comebacks, and Jean-Philippe Mateta delivered for Crystal Palace.
The powerful forward muscled his way through Leicester's defence, netting twice, including a crucial 92nd-minute equaliser to salvage a 2-2 draw from two goals down.
Mateta’s knack for being in the right place at the right time continues to be invaluable for Palace.
Erling Haaland (Manchester City) – Forward
Erling Haaland continues to rewrite Premier League history. With a brace against Brentford, he now has nine goals in four games, outscoring every Premier League club except of course his own.
His latest achievement? Breaking Wayne Rooney’s record for the most goals after the first four games of a Premier League season.
Haaland's dominance is undeniable, and he's turning the league into his personal playground.
