Southampton hosts West Ham at St. Mary’s Stadium on Thursday, December 26th, 2024, at 9:00 PM (GMT). Southampton will aim to bounce back from their recent struggles and secure valuable points in front of their home crowd. Meanwhile, West Ham, under the guidance of David Moyes, will look to continue their solid form this season and push for a European spot.
Southampton vs West Ham Form Guide
Southampton
Southampton has shown flashes of individual brilliance but has struggled in key areas, particularly in finishing chances and defending set pieces. With players like Adam Armstrong and Mateus Fernandes contributing to their attack, Southampton will look to utilize their possession-based game and exploit West Ham’s defensive weaknesses. However, they must improve their ability to protect leads and avoid costly errors.
West Ham
West Ham has been consistent under David Moyes, boasting a strong defensive setup and an attacking threat with Tomas Soucek and Jarrod Bowen. Their aerial duels and ability to create chances from set-pieces are key strengths. However, they will need to be cautious of Southampton’s counter-attacks and individual skill, particularly in attacking down the right.
Southampton vs West Ham Key Battles
Adam Armstrong vs Tomas Soucek
The matchup between Southampton’s Adam Armstrong and West Ham’s Tomas Soucek will be crucial. Armstrong, with his agility and sharpness in front of goal, will look to test West Ham’s defense. Soucek, a commanding presence in midfield, will play a pivotal role in controlling the tempo and providing defensive cover.
Mateus Fernandes vs Jarrod Bowen
Mateus Fernandes, with his vision and creativity, will look to link up play and create opportunities for Southampton, while Jarrod Bowen will be key for West Ham in breaking through the Southampton defense with his pace and finishing ability.
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Southampton vs West Ham Tactical Outlook
Southampton will likely set up to control possession and play short passes, focusing on attacking down the right. They will look to press high when out of possession, attempting to catch West Ham on the counter-attack. Their defensive frailties, especially against skillful players, will be tested by West Ham’s aerial strength and set-piece prowess.
West Ham, on the other hand, will focus on attacking down the right and utilizing long balls and through balls to bypass Southampton’s midfield. Their style of taking shots from distance and their aggressive approach will test Southampton’s defense. West Ham’s solid defense and ability to protect a lead could make them tough to break down.
Head-to-Head Encounters
The current head-to-head record stands at Southampton 7 wins, West Ham 11 wins, and 7 draws. Southampton has odds of 3.25 to win, 3.60 for a draw, and 2.10 for West Ham to win. The bookmakers predict a close match, with West Ham slightly favored.
Injury News and Suspensions
Southampton
Southampton are dealing with several injuries that will affect their squad over the coming months. Gavin Bazunu is recovering from an Achilles tendon injury and is expected to return by mid-January 2025. Juan Larios, also sidelined with a knock, will be unavailable until mid-January 2025 as well. Ross Stewart and William Smallbone are both expected to return by late December 2024 after recovering from calf and hamstring injuries, respectively. These absences may impact Southampton’s defensive and midfield depth as they head into the festive period.
West Ham United
West Ham United are facing a serious long-term injury to Michail Antonio, who has sustained a broken leg and is expected to be out until early May 2025. Additionally, Lucas Paquetá is suspended, further impacting West Ham’s attacking and midfield options in the short term. These setbacks will require the Hammers to rely on their squad depth as they navigate a challenging period.
Southampton vs West Ham Possible Playing Squad
Southampton
Armstrong, Dibling, Fernandes, Aribo, Downes, Walker-Peters, Sugawara, Wood, Bednarek, Harwood-Bellis, Ramsdale (GK).
West Ham United
Füllkrug, Kudus, Paquetá, Bowen, Soucek, Álvarez, Emerson, Kilman, Mavropanos, Wan-Bissaka, Fabianski (GK).
Match Details at a Glance
| Match | Date | Time | Format | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southampton vs West Ham United | Thursday, December 26, 2024 | 9:00 PM (GMT) | Premier League | St. Mary’s Stadium, Southampton, England |
Match Prediction
West Ham will likely secure a victory, as Southampton’s defensive vulnerabilities and struggles in key areas could play into West Ham’s hands. West Ham’s solid defensive organization and attacking options should give them the edge in this matchup.
Score Prediction
A 2-0 victory for West Ham seems likely, with Bowen and Soucek finding the net for the visitors in a controlled performance.
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