West Ham United vs Brighton & Hove Albion: Possible Lineups, Head to Head, Preview, Prediction, and Team News | Premier League, December 21, 2024.
Match Details
- Tournament: Premier League 2024/25
- Date: Saturday, December 21, 2024
- Kickoff Time: 15:30 (GMT)
- Venue: London Stadium, London, England
West Ham United and Brighton & Hove Albion are set to clash in a thrilling Premier League encounter this weekend. With both teams aiming to climb the league table, this matchup promises action-packed football, key player battles, and high stakes. Let’s dive into a detailed preview of this exciting fixture.
Match Preview: West Ham vs Brighton
West Ham United, sitting 14th in the league table, have struggled for consistency this season. Despite winning two of their last five matches, the Hammers remain desperate for points to secure their safety and potentially aim for a European spot next season. Manager Julen Lopetegui will be looking to capitalize on their recent home form to snatch a much-needed victory.
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Brighton & Hove Albion, currently 9th, have endured a dip in form. Winless in their last four matches, the Seagulls have managed to collect 24 points from 16 games. With a win, Brighton can leap into 5th place alongside Manchester City. However, their historical struggles against West Ham at the London Stadium may pose a challenge.
Key Stats:
- West Ham United have earned 10 points in their last five home matches, equal to the total in their previous 11.
- Brighton are winless in their last 10 meetings with West Ham (4 draws and 6 losses).
- The Seagulls have conceded two or more goals in their last six defeats against the Hammers.
Team News and Injury Updates
West Ham United Team News
West Ham face a couple of setbacks heading into this match:
- Michail Antonio is ruled out after a car accident earlier this month.
- Carlos Soler will miss the match due to suspension after accumulating his fifth yellow card of the season against Bournemouth.
- Emerson, who missed the last match due to suspension, is expected to return to the starting lineup.
Key Player:
- Jarrod Bowen: The English forward has been influential for West Ham, contributing two assists and a goal in his last five matches. His creativity and form will be pivotal to breaking Brighton’s defense.
Brighton & Hove Albion Team News
Brighton have several players sidelined due to injuries:
- Ferdi Kadioglu, Jack Hinshelwood, Adam Webster, James Milner, and Solly March are unavailable.
- Joel Veltman remains a doubt but could feature in this match if declared fit.
Key Player:
- João Pedro: With four goals and three assists this season, the Brazilian forward has been a vital player for Brighton. Despite a recent dip in form, his attacking flair remains a significant threat.
Predicted Lineups
West Ham United (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Łukasz Fabiański
- Defenders: Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Konstantinos Mavropanos, Max Kilman, Emerson Palmieri
- Midfielders: Edson Álvarez, Lucas Paquetá, Tomáš Souček, Mohammed Kudus, Jarrod Bowen
- Forward: Niclas Füllkrug
Brighton & Hove Albion (3-4-3)
- Goalkeeper: Bart Verbruggen
- Defenders: Tariq Lamptey, Jan Paul van Hecke, Lewis Dunk, Pervis Estupiñán
- Midfielders: Carlos Baleba, Yasin Ayari, Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, Georginio Rutter, Kaoru Mitoma
- Forward: João Pedro
Head-to-Head Record
Brighton & Hove Albion have dominated recent meetings against West Ham United. They’ve won three of their last five encounters, though the most recent match at the London Stadium ended in a goalless stalemate. Notably, goals have been a common feature in their clashes, except for that rare scoreless draw earlier this year.
Prediction: Who Will Triumph?
West Ham’s home advantage and Brighton’s poor recent form make this an intriguing contest. Despite Brighton’s upper hand in head-to-head stats, West Ham’s improved defensive solidity at home suggests a tightly contested draw is the most likely outcome.
Soccer Baba Predicted Score: West Ham United 2-2 Brighton & Hove Albion
Where to Watch West Ham United vs Brighton & Hove Albion Live (Streaming)
Catch the action live across the following platforms:
| Country | Broadcaster |
|---|---|
| USA | NBC Sports |
| UK | Sky Sports |
| India | Disney+ Hotstar, Star Network |
FAQs
1. What is the kickoff time for West Ham vs Brighton?
The match kicks off at 15:30 GMT on Saturday, December 21, 2024.
2. Where is the match being played?
The game will be held at the London Stadium in London, England.
3. Who are the key players to watch?
For West Ham, Jarrod Bowen is the standout performer. For Brighton, João Pedro is expected to make an impact.
4. What are the teams’ current standings?
West Ham United are 14th, while Brighton & Hove Albion sit 9th in the Premier League table.
5. Can Brighton break their winless streak at the London Stadium?
Brighton will need to overcome their poor record against West Ham, having not won in their last 10 visits.
