Fulham vs West Ham Preview

• Draw or Fulham win
• Traore to score or assist

Fulham Looking to Build Momentum After Ipswich Draw

Fulham’s 1-1 draw at Ipswich Town before the international break may not have been their most convincing performance, but after falling behind within the first 15 minutes, the point will have felt hard-earned.

The Cottagers now have the chance to make history by accumulating seven points from their first four Premier League matches for the first time since the 2006/07 season. To achieve this, however, they must secure a win against West Ham at Craven Cottage.

Despite an underwhelming display at Ipswich, Fulham will be buoyed by their 5-0 demolition of West Ham in last season’s corresponding fixture.

However, four of the players involved in that triumph have either left the club or are yet to feature this season, presenting a fresh challenge for Marco Silva.

He will aim to lead Fulham to three consecutive victories over the Hammers for the first time since October 1966, but Silva faces a personal challenge, having never won a home clash against a Julen Lopetegui-managed side (D2).

West Ham Searching for Consistency on the Road

West Ham’s form in the 2024/25 season has been mixed, with two wins and two losses across all competitions.

Their most recent outing, a 3-1 loss to Manchester City, was largely down to a spectacular hat-trick by Erling Haaland, but David Moyes’ men may find solace in their recent success away from home.

Three of the Irons’ last four Premier League victories have come on the road, and they’ll be eager to continue that trend at Craven Cottage.

However, West Ham arrive with an unwanted statistic looming over them. They have never lost three consecutive matches without scoring against Fulham, but that’s the record they’re attempting to avoid.

Defensive frailties have plagued the Hammers in recent matches, with early goals being a particular issue. In five of their last six Premier League matches, West Ham have conceded inside the first 15 minutes.

The only exception was a 2-0 win over Crystal Palace. A victory here would mark the first time since November 2019 that West Ham had won back-to-back London derby away games in the Premier League.

Key Players to Watch

Adama Traoré (Fulham)

Traoré has made a bright start to the season, with one goal and one assist in three starts. The Spanish winger has proven to be a key figure for Fulham, as his teams have not lost in the last eight games where he has contributed to a goal (W6, D2).

His pace and power could be crucial against a West Ham defence prone to early concessions.

Jarrod Bowen (West Ham)

Bowen has a strong personal record against Fulham, netting four goals in nine career meetings. Interestingly, all of his goals have come before the hour mark, making him a player to watch early in the match.

Bowen will be pivotal in West Ham’s efforts to avoid another slow start and break down Fulham’s defence.

Conclusion

Fulham will be hoping to continue their solid start to the season and record their third straight win over West Ham, while the Hammers will be desperate to address their defensive frailties and pick up a vital away win.

With both teams eager to secure three points, this London derby promises to be a closely contested affair.

Prediction: Fulham to edge a narrow victory, but expect an entertaining match with both sides creating chances.

For more info on this game, you could also visit:
Fulham v West Ham, 2024/25 | Premier League