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The Premier League returns from the international break with a compelling London derby as Fulham host Arsenal at Craven Cottage. Arsenal enter this fixture sitting atop the Premier League table, eager to maintain their position after an impressive start to the campaign. The Gunners will be looking to extend their winning momentum against a Fulham side that has endured back-to-back defeats heading into the break. Read on for an expert Fulham vs Arsenal prediction and explore stats and tips for EPL betting in 2025.
- English Premier League
- Fulham FC vs Arsenal FC
- Saturday, October 18, 2025
- 12:30 PM EST
- Emirates Stadium, Holloway, London, England
- Peacock, NBC
Fulham vs Arsenal Prediction: Who do Sportsbooks Favor?
Arsenal arrive as clear favorites for this London derby, with most sportsbooks pricing them around (-180) to secure all three points. Fulham are listed as substantial underdogs at approximately (+450), while the draw sits around (+320) across major betting platforms. The total goals market has opened at 2.5.
Premier League 
Fulham +445 +432 +445 Arsenal -180 -175 -184 Draw +348 +343 +350
Want to better understand the 3-way moneyline (1X2) market? See our soccer betting lines and explore our guide on English Premier League betting in 2025.
Fulham’s Midfield Setback Compounds Recent Struggles
Fulham’s preparation for this fixture suffered a significant blow with Sasa Lukic’s early injury during their 3-1 defeat to Bournemouth. The Serbian midfielder was forced off in the opening twenty minutes, leaving Marco Silva to reorganize his tactical setup. Tom Cairney replaced Lukic and helped stabilize the midfield, but the loss of such an influential player creates selection headaches. The international break provides recovery time, though Lukic’s availability remains doubtful for the Arsenal encounter.
The Cottagers’ recent form presents cause for concern after consecutive 3-1 defeats have dampened spirits at Craven Cottage. Silva’s side controlled large portions of the Bournemouth match before individual errors proved costly in the final twenty minutes. Ryan Sessegnon’s opener demonstrated Fulham’s attacking threat, but defensive lapses allowed Bournemouth to score three times in the closing stages.
Fulham’s tactical approach under Silva typically emphasizes possession-based football and patient build-up play through midfield channels. The potential absence of Lukic disrupts their usual rhythm and forces alternative approaches to breaking down organized defenses. Arsenal’s defensive discipline and Fulham’s attacking struggles point toward a cagey encounter with limited clear-cut chances.
Arsenal’s Injury Concerns Could Impact Attack
Arsenal received welcome news regarding Declan Rice’s fitness after the midfielder’s back scare against West Ham United. Rice had signaled to the bench in the 79th minute during the 2-0 victory, prompting concerns about his availability for England duty. Medical assessments revealed no serious damage, allowing Rice to join the England squad and participate in training sessions. His presence will be crucial for Arsenal’s midfield stability as they face a congested fixture schedule including matches against Atletico Madrid and Crystal Palace.
The Gunners face uncertainty in their attacking third with Martin Odegaard’s ongoing knee injury limiting Mikel Arteta’s options. Academy graduate Ethan Nwaneri emerges as a potential replacement for the Norwegian captain in the number ten role. Summer signing Eberechi Eze could shift to the left flank to accommodate Nwaneri’s inclusion in the starting eleven. Viktor Gyokeres remains the likely striker despite his goal drought, with Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz still recovering from their respective injuries.
Arsenal’s defensive solidity under Arteta has become a hallmark of their recent success, with the partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes proving particularly effective. David Raya’s consistent performances between the posts provide additional security for a backline that rarely concedes multiple goals. Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori offer pace and recovery speed in the full-back positions to counter Fulham’s wide threats. The Gunners’ defensive structure should limit Fulham’s scoring opportunities despite the home advantage.
Fulham vs Arsenal Prediction: Free Expert EPL Betting Pick
Advanced metrics and my own expected goals model strongly favor the under 2.5 goals selection in this London derby encounter. Arsenal’s recent matches have featured controlled performances where they limit opposition chances while creating quality opportunities themselves. Fulham’s attacking output has declined in recent fixtures, with their creative players struggling to find consistent rhythm.
Sharp betting action has moved the under 2.5 goals line from its opening position, indicating professional money backing fewer goals. The true odds of -140 for under 2.5 goals according to my model represents significant value compared to current market pricing around even money.
The tactical dynamics and current form of both teams also strongly support backing under 2.5 goals in this Premier League encounter. Arsenal’s defensive organization under Arteta has consistently frustrated attacking teams, while Fulham’s recent struggles in front of goal compound their scoring difficulties. The potential absence of key creative players for both sides further reduces the likelihood of a high-scoring affair.
Fulham’s home advantage may keep the match competitive, but both teams’ recent tendencies suggest a tight, low-scoring contest. Back under 2.5 goals at -110 or better for optimal value in this London derby clash.
Odds are accurate at time of writing but subject to change.
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