Matchday Four: Villa, Tottenham, Coventry search for season’s first EPL goal

Three Premier League teams – Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur and Coventry City – are currently without a goal in their first matches of the 2026/27 season, according to PUNCH Online. While sharing the common issue of a goalless start, each club faces distinct challenges. Villa and Tottenham entered the season with aspirations beyond mere survival, whereas Coventry have already secured their return to the top flight after a challenging introduction to the league.

Aston Villa's unimpressive start includes a 4-0 loss to Brighton, a 1-0 home defeat against Arsenal, and a 0-0 draw against Hull City. Villa's attacking options remain a cause for concern, as they have only managed one shot on target in their opening three matches. With just one point from three games and no league goals, manager Unai Emery faces pressure to turn things around. Villa's next match against Nottingham Forest at home on September 12 presents an immediate opportunity to score and regain momentum.

Tottenham Hotspur's situation is slightly different due to their new manager, Roberto De Zerbi. The team has endured a series of setbacks, beginning with a 0-0 draw against Brentford, followed by a 2-0 loss to Newcastle United, and another 0-0 draw against Nottingham Forest. Tottenham had a chance against Nottingham Forest, but the goal was disallowed by VAR.

De Zerbi's challenge lies in establishing his tactics and getting his attacking players functioning effectively. Their upcoming fixture against Everton at home on September 12 could provide a crucial stepping stone, as a victory would alleviate immediate anxiety.

Coventry City, the newly promoted side, have also lost all three matches thus far, scoring just once. Their challenges are compounded by facing two of the league’s strongest teams, Arsenal and Manchester City, in their opening fixtures. Despite these setbacks, Coventry's next match against Brighton & Hove Albion on September 13 offers a realistic chance to break their goalless streak.

For Villa, experience and squad quality could help overcome the early struggles, while Tottenham relies on Roberto De Zerbi's ability to translate his ideas into goals. Coventry, on the other hand, must demonstrate that their difficult schedule has masked a capable team that can compete in the Premier League. The coming weekend may provide the first indication of which team can find success in their first goal.