Brentford vs Burnley Match Preview: Premier League 2025/26 – Matchday 13
Match Details
Competition: Premier League 2025/26 – Matchday 13
Date: Saturday, November 29, 2025
Kick-Off: 15:00 GMT
Venue: Gtech Community Stadium, London, England
Referee: TBA
TV Coverage: Sky Sports (UK), NBC Sports (US)
Current Standings and Context
This Premier League encounter brings together two promoted clubs experiencing contrasting fortunes in their return to the top flight. Brentford currently sit in a comfortable 11th position with 13 points from nine matches, demonstrating their ability to compete at this level after earning promotion from the Championship. Meanwhile, Burnley occupy 17th place with 10 points from 11 matches, finding themselves precariously positioned just above the relegation zone.
The contrasting circumstances create fascinating dynamics. Brentford have adapted well to Premier League football, showing tactical discipline and attacking quality that makes them difficult opponents at the Gtech Community Stadium. Burnley, despite their struggles, arrive with momentum from their recent 2-1 victory over Nottingham Forest at Liverpool, which lifted them out of the relegation zone temporarily.
This match represents a crucial six-pointer for both clubs’ contrasting ambitions. Brentford seek to consolidate their mid-table position and maintain their impressive start to life back in the top flight, while Burnley desperately need points to create breathing space from the relegation zone and build confidence for the challenges ahead.
Team Form Analysis
Brentford – Solid Mid-Table Performers
Thomas Frank’s Brentford have made a respectable return to the Premier League following last season’s Championship promotion. The Bees sit comfortably in 11th place with four wins, one draw and four defeats from their opening nine matches, establishing themselves as a solid mid-table team.
Most encouragingly, Brentford bounced back from their defeat to Liverpool with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Newcastle United, demonstrating character and resilience. That result extended their unbeaten home run and showcased the attacking quality that makes them dangerous opponents at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Brentford’s goal-scoring record of 14 goals in nine matches demonstrates their attacking capabilities, while conceding 14 goals suggests defensive vulnerabilities that Burnley will look to exploit. The Bees have developed a reputation for entertaining football, with 60% of their matches featuring over 2.5 goals this season.
Recent Form (Last 5 matches across all competitions):
W-L-W-D-W
Home Record – The Gtech Advantage:
Brentford’s home form has been exceptional. They remain largely unbeaten at the Gtech Community Stadium in recent matches, creating an intimidating atmosphere that visiting teams struggle to navigate. The compact stadium and passionate supporters provide significant psychological advantage.
The Bees have shown particular strength when hosting promoted or newly-promoted clubs, understanding the challenges these teams face adapting to Premier League intensity. Against Burnley, they will be overwhelming favorites based on form, home advantage and recent head-to-head history.
Burnley – Fighting for Survival
Scott Parker’s Burnley are experiencing the challenges that accompany immediate promotion back to the Premier League. The Clarets earned automatic promotion last season by finishing second in the Championship with 100 points, matching their remarkable defensive record that saw them concede just 16 goals all campaign.
However, Premier League football presents different challenges. Burnley have collected 10 points from 11 matches, recording three wins, one draw and seven defeats. They currently occupy 17th position, uncomfortably close to the relegation zone but demonstrating they can compete when performing to their capabilities.
Most recently, Burnley shocked Liverpool with a 2-1 victory at Anfield, with goals from Jacob Bruun Larsen and David Datro Fofana securing an unlikely three points. That result provided enormous confidence and demonstrated Burnley’s ability to compete against superior opposition when circumstances align favorably.
Recent Form (Last 5 matches across all competitions):
W-L-D-L-L
Away Record:
Burnley’s away form represents their primary concern. They have struggled on the road this season, collecting minimal points away from Turf Moor. The trip to west London represents another difficult challenge, particularly given Brentford’s strong home record and Burnley’s historical struggles at this venue.
Head-to-Head Record
The historical record between these clubs shows relative balance in recent encounters. In their last four meetings, Brentford have secured two victories while Burnley have won once, with one match drawn. However, context matters significantly – these previous encounters occurred when both teams competed in the Championship.
Recent Encounters:
The most memorable recent meeting came in October 2023, when Brentford demolished Burnley 3-0 at the Gtech Community Stadium. Bryan Mbeumo, Yoane Wissa and Saman Ghoddos all scored in that comfortable victory, demonstrating Brentford’s superiority on home soil.
Most recently, Burnley secured revenge with a 2-1 victory at Turf Moor in March 2024. Goals from Jacob Bruun Larsen and David Datro Fofana cancelled out Brentford’s opener, providing Burnley with crucial points in their ultimately unsuccessful relegation battle last season.
Historical Context:
The matches between these clubs have consistently featured goals at both ends, with four of their last seven encounters producing over 2.5 goals. Both teams favor attacking football, creating entertaining spectacles that delight neutral observers.
Burnley have received five red cards in previous campaigns, the highest number in their respective leagues, suggesting discipline remains a concern. Against Brentford’s organized approach, tactical fouls and aggressive defending could prove costly if the referee adopts a strict interpretation.
Tactical Analysis
Brentford’s Approach
Thomas Frank will deploy his characteristic 4-3-3 formation that emphasizes width, direct attacking play, and set-piece threat. The Danish manager favors an entertaining style that creates numerous scoring opportunities while accepting defensive vulnerabilities.
Brentford excel in wide areas, utilizing their full-backs and wingers to create crossing opportunities for central attackers. With Ivan Toney leading the line, their aerial threat from set-pieces and open play provides a genuine route to goal against any opponent.
Key Tactical Elements:
- Direct attacking play through wide areas
- Set-piece threat from corners and free-kicks
- Physical duels in midfield and defense
- Quick transitions when winning possession
- Exploiting Burnley’s defensive vulnerabilities
The absence of Bryan Mbeumo through injury weakens Brentford’s attacking options, but they possess sufficient quality throughout the squad to compensate. Sergio Reguilón’s attacking instincts from left-back could exploit space behind Burnley’s defensive line.
Burnley’s Game Plan
Scott Parker will likely adopt a cautious 4-2-3-1 formation in possession, transitioning to 4-4-2 defensively. The English manager prioritizes defensive organization and quick counter-attacks, understanding Burnley must be compact to compete with Brentford’s attacking quality.
Burnley have struggled to create clear-cut chances this season, ranking among the lowest teams for shots in the Premier League. Their approach relies heavily on set-pieces and long-range efforts, with 30% of their goals coming from outside the box – surprisingly high in modern football.
Key Tactical Elements:
- Compact defensive shape to limit space
- Physical intensity to disrupt Brentford’s rhythm
- Long-range shooting when opportunities arise
- Set-piece opportunities as scoring chances
- Quick counter-attacks through pacey forwards
The suspension or injury of key players forces tactical adjustments, but Parker will organize Burnley to remain disciplined and exploit any Brentford defensive lapses through clinical finishing.
Team News and Injuries
Brentford – Notable Absences
Brentford face several concerns affecting squad depth and tactical flexibility. Manager Thomas Frank must cope without key players who would strengthen their chances of securing victory.
Confirmed Absences:
- Bryan Mbeumo (injury – in contention for return)
- Christian Nørgaard (back injury – will not travel)
- Aaron Hickey (suspension – fifth yellow card)
- Multiple unnamed players (up to nine potential absences)
Tactical Impact:
Captain Christian Nørgaard’s absence removes leadership and defensive stability from midfield. The Norwegian has started 26 of Brentford’s 28 league matches previously, highlighting his importance to their tactical approach.
Bryan Mbeumo’s potential return provides encouragement. The winger has been excellent this season and his availability significantly strengthens Brentford’s attacking options.
Burnley – Minimal Injury Concerns
Burnley travel to London with relatively few injury worries, providing manager Scott Parker with extensive tactical options. The squad’s fitness represents a significant advantage given Brentford’s multiple absences.
Confirmed Absences:
- Aaron Ramsey (injury)
- Nathan Redmond (injury)
- Lyle Foster (injury)
- Luca Koleosho (injury)
- Jordan Beyer (injury)
Positive News:
Josh Brownhill could return to the starting XI after being rested previously. The midfielder’s presence provides additional defensive stability and creative quality from deep positions.
Predicted Lineups
Brentford (4-3-3):
Goalkeeper: Mark Flekken
Defense: Mads Roerslev, Ethan Pinnock, Nathan Collins, Sergio Reguilón
Midfield: Mathias Jensen, Vitaly Janelt, Mikkel Damsgaard
Attack: Bryan Mbeumo, Ivan Toney, Keane Lewis-Potter
Substitutes: Thomas Strakosha, Ben Mee, Shandon Baptiste, Frank Onyeka, Saman Ghoddos, Yoane Wissa, Neal Maupay
Burnley (4-2-3-1):
Goalkeeper: James Trafford
Defense: Connor Roberts, Dara O’Shea, Jordan Beyer, Charlie Taylor
Midfield: Josh Cullen, Josh Brownhill (c)
Attacking Midfield: Liam Cullen, Sander Berge, Anass Zaroury
Striker: David Datro Fofana
Substitutes: Arijanet Muric, Vitinho, Ameen Al-Dakhil, Manuel Benson, Mike Trésor, Jacob Bruun Larsen, Jay Rodriguez
Key Players to Watch
Brentford
Ivan Toney: The English striker represents Brentford’s primary goal threat with his physical presence, aerial ability and clinical finishing. Toney has been desperate to return to scoring form after a frustrating drought, and facing Burnley’s defense provides an excellent opportunity.
Bryan Mbeumo: If fit, the winger brings pace, creativity and unpredictability down the flanks. Mbeumo’s ability to beat defenders one-on-one and deliver quality crosses makes him dangerous throughout matches.
Ethan Pinnock: The defender has won 92 aerials this season, the fourth-highest number in the league. His physical presence will be tested against Burnley’s aerial threats, particularly from set-pieces.
Sergio Reguilón: The Spanish left-back provides attacking width and crossing quality. His overlapping runs and technical ability could unlock Burnley’s defensive organization.
Burnley
David Datro Fofana: The striker has found the net recently, including crucial goals against Liverpool. His pace, movement and finishing ability make him Burnley’s most dangerous attacking weapon.
Jacob Bruun Larsen: The winger scored against Liverpool and provides pace, directness and goal threat. His ability to exploit space behind defensive lines could trouble Brentford’s high defensive line.
Josh Brownhill: The captain orchestrates Burnley’s play from midfield with his passing range, work rate and tactical intelligence. His performance will largely determine whether Burnley can compete in midfield.
Dara O’Shea: The Republic of Ireland defender has won 87 aerials this season, fifth-highest in the league. His aerial duels with Ivan Toney will be fascinating throughout the match.
Statistical Insights
Brentford Statistics
- 13 points from nine Premier League matches (4W, 1D, 4L)
- Currently 11th in Premier League table
- Scored 14 goals, conceded 14 in Premier League
- 60% of matches featured over 2.5 goals
- Strong home record with multiple victories
- Won 3-0 against Burnley in October 2023
- Defeated Newcastle 3-1 most recently
Burnley Statistics
- 10 points from 11 Premier League matches (3W, 1D, 7L)
- Currently 17th in Premier League (one place above relegation zone)
- Scored 11 goals, conceded significant number
- Won 2-1 at Liverpool most recently
- 30% of goals come from outside the box
- Five red cards in previous campaigns
- Worst home record in league previous season (five points at Turf Moor)
Historical Context
- Four meetings: Brentford won 2, Burnley won 1, drawn 1
- Four of last seven encounters featured over 2.5 goals
- Both teams to score in four of last six Brentford matches
- Both teams favor attacking football
Match Predictions and Betting Insights
Expert Analysis
The contrasting circumstances create a relatively straightforward prediction scenario. Brentford’s home advantage, superior form, and Burnley’s defensive struggles all point toward a home victory. However, Burnley’s recent upset at Liverpool demonstrates they cannot be underestimated.
Bookmakers heavily favor Brentford with odds reflecting home advantage and form differential. However, with both teams scoring consistently in recent encounters, goals at both ends appear likely despite Brentford’s expected superiority.
Key Factors
- Home Advantage: Brentford’s strong Gtech Community Stadium record
- Form Contrast: Brentford’s mid-table comfort vs Burnley’s relegation concerns
- Historical Precedent: Brentford’s 3-0 victory in October 2023
- Attacking Football: Both teams favor entertaining, open matches
- Defensive Vulnerabilities: Both teams concede regularly
Goals and Scoring Patterns
Expect an entertaining encounter with goals at both ends. Both teams’ recent matches have consistently featured over 2.5 goals, and their attacking philosophies suggest this pattern will continue.
Both teams to score appears highly likely given recent form and tactical approaches. Brentford have seen both teams score in eight of their last ten matches, while Burnley’s defensive record suggests vulnerability.
Over 2.5 goals offers excellent value with strong probability. The entertainment factor combined with both teams’ commitment to attacking football should produce multiple goals.
Score Prediction: Brentford 2-1 Burnley
Brentford will secure victory but Burnley will make them work for three points. The hosts’ home advantage and superior squad depth should prove decisive, but Burnley’s fighting spirit and recent confidence from the Liverpool victory ensures they score.
Ivan Toney should finally rediscover his scoring touch, while Bryan Mbeumo (if fit) provides creative inspiration. For Burnley, David Datro Fofana’s recent form suggests he’ll trouble Brentford’s defense and grab a consolation goal.
The match will be competitive throughout, with Burnley refusing to surrender meekly. However, Brentford’s quality in key moments and home advantage ultimately delivers victory that consolidates their mid-table position.
Final Verdict
Winner: Brentford (2-1)
This Saturday afternoon encounter represents contrasting priorities for both clubs. Brentford seek to build on their impressive start and establish themselves as a comfortable mid-table Premier League team, while Burnley desperately need points to escape the relegation zone.
Thomas Frank’s Brentford have demonstrated their Premier League credentials throughout the opening weeks. Their attractive football, home advantage, and tactical organization make them formidable opponents at the Gtech Community Stadium. The passionate supporters create an intimidating atmosphere that visiting teams struggle to navigate.
Burnley arrive with renewed confidence following their shocking victory at Liverpool. Scott Parker’s side demonstrated they can compete when circumstances align favorably, but consistency remains elusive. Their defensive record suggests vulnerability against organized attacking teams like Brentford.
The tactical battle will be fascinating. Frank’s attacking philosophy contrasts with Parker’s pragmatic approach, creating a classic clash between expansive and cautious football. Brentford will dominate possession and create numerous chances, while Burnley must remain disciplined and exploit counter-attacking opportunities.
Key individual battles could prove decisive. Ivan Toney versus Dara O’Shea represents a fascinating aerial duel, while Bryan Mbeumo’s pace against Burnley’s full-backs could create scoring opportunities. In midfield, the battle for control between Brentford’s creative players and Burnley’s defensive midfielders will largely determine the outcome.
Final Prediction: Brentford 2-1 Burnley
Brentford will secure a deserved victory that consolidates their mid-table position and demonstrates their Premier League quality. Ivan Toney will rediscover his scoring touch, while additional goals come from midfield runners or set-piece situations. Burnley will score through David Datro Fofana’s continued good form but ultimately leave London empty-handed.
The match will entertain neutral observers with attacking football from both teams, though Brentford’s superior quality and home advantage prove decisive. This result maintains Brentford’s comfortable position while leaving Burnley in the relegation battle, desperately seeking consistency to secure their Premier League status.
