Football Prediction | West Ham United vs Liverpool | English Premier League | Dec 29 – Will Liverpool Continue Their Dominance and Extend Their Lead at the Top?

Premier League action continues as West Ham United hosts Liverpool at the London Stadium on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at 11:15 PM (GMT). Under the management of David Moyes, West Ham aims to capitalize on their home advantage and secure crucial points to solidify their league position. Meanwhile, Jürgen Klopp’s Liverpool will look to maintain their title push with another strong performance on the road.

West Ham vs Liverpool Form Guide

West Ham

West Ham’s recent performances showcase their prowess in set pieces, aerial duels, and creating scoring chances. Their strength in attacking set plays and shooting from direct free kicks highlights their tactical preparation and ability to capitalize on dead-ball situations. Additionally, West Ham is highly effective at protecting leads once they gain an advantage. However, their weaknesses lie in defensive vulnerabilities, particularly against counter-attacks, through-ball attacks, and long shots. They also struggle to maintain possession and finish scoring chances, often leaving gaps for opponents to exploit. 

Liverpool

Liverpool enters with a strong focus on finishing scoring opportunities and executing counter-attacks with precision. They excel at attacking through the wings and creating chances through individual brilliance, making them a formidable force in open play. Their ability to come back from losing positions and defend set pieces effectively adds to their resilience. While Liverpool’s weaknesses include defending against through-ball attacks, their style of short passes, possession-based football, and control in the opposition’s half often neutralizes these shortcomings.

West Ham vs Liverpool Key Battles

Jarrod Bowen vs Mohamed Salah

Bowen has scored 5 goals this season, while Salah leads Liverpool with 16 goals. This duel could determine which team gains the upper hand in attack.

Mohammed Kudus vs Cody Gakpo

Kudus has contributed 4 goals and assists, while Gakpo has 6 to his name. The midfield battle will be critical, with both players looking to create and finish scoring opportunities.

West Ham vs Liverpool Tactical Outlook

West Ham is expected to utilize their strengths in set pieces and aerial duels. Moyes may instruct his team to play aggressively, focusing on long balls and attacking down the wings. Their defensive structure will need to be tight to contain Liverpool’s relentless pressure. West Ham’s aggressive playstyle, reliance on long balls, and consistent first eleven reflect their strategic approach to matches.

Liverpool will aim to dominate possession and control the game in West Ham’s half. Klopp’s side thrives on short passes and quick transitions, with Salah and Jota spearheading the attack. Their ability to recover from losing positions and protect leads makes them a tough opponent to beat. The team’s rotation of the first eleven ensures fresh legs and tactical flexibility, enhancing their adaptability throughout the match.

Head-to-Head Encounters

West Ham and Liverpool have faced each other 30 times recently, with West Ham winning 6 matches, Liverpool winning 19, and 5 matches ending in draws. Liverpool enters the match as the favorites, with odds of 1.36 for a win, while West Ham has odds of 8.00, and a draw stands at 5.00.

Read More: Football Prediction | Tottenham vs Wolverhampton Wanderers | EPL 2024-2025 – Dec 29

Injury News and Suspensions

West Ham United 

West Ham United faces a challenging period with two suspensions as Guido Rodriguez and Tomas Soucek are unavailable for selection. Max Kilman is doubtful due to a shoulder injury, while Carlos Soler is sidelined until mid-February 2025 with a knee issue. The team will also be without Michail Antonio, who is recovering from a broken leg and is not expected back until early May 2025. These setbacks will test West Ham’s squad depth in the coming matches.

Liverpool 

Liverpool will miss Dominik Szoboszlai due to suspension, while Ibrahima Konaté is out with a knee injury but is expected to return by early January 2025. Conor Bradley’s recovery from a hamstring injury is progressing well, with a return anticipated in a few days. Despite these absences, Liverpool will look to maintain their strong performances during this phase.

West Ham vs Liverpool Possible Playing Squads

West Ham United

Areola (GK), Emerson, Mavropanos, Todibo, Wan-Bissaka, Soler, Álvarez, Kudus, Paquetá, Bowen, Füllkrug.

Liverpool

Becker (GK), Robertson, Van Dijk, Gomez, Alexander-Arnold, Mac Allister, Gravenberch, Gakpo, Jones, Salah, Jota.

Match Details at a Glance

Match Prediction

West Ham will look to leverage their strengths at home, but Liverpool’s attacking firepower and tactical discipline are likely to prove too much for the Hammers. Expect an exciting match filled with individual brilliance.

Score Prediction

West Ham 1-2 Liverpool. Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo to shine for Liverpool, while Bowen may find the net for West Ham in a closely contested match.

Disclaimer: This Football prediction is based on the author’s insights and analysis. Readers should consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.