West Ham vs Brighton Preview

• Draw
• Over 2.5 goals

West Ham United welcome Brighton & Hove Albion to the London Stadium in what promises to be an intriguing Premier League clash.

Both teams are searching for consistency as they aim to move closer to their respective goals, making this a vital fixture in their festive programme.

West Ham United: Searching for Momentum

West Ham’s 1-1 draw against Bournemouth on Monday left manager Julen Lopetegui focusing on the positives, describing it as a building block for a “stronger and better team.”

Currently sitting in 14th place, the Hammers remain closer to the top seven than the relegation zone, highlighting the fine margins in the Premier League table.

The Irons have had mixed fortunes at home this season, with three wins, one draw, and four losses in league action at the London Stadium.

However, their recent 2-1 victory over Wolves offered encouragement, and Lopetegui will hope to build on that performance. This game will test their progress, as West Ham have never won a Premier League H2H against Brighton at home (D5, L2).

Key Player: Lucas Paquetá

The Brazilian has been a consistent source of goals, with three of his last four strikes coming from the penalty spot. Importantly, all three penalties were the opening goals for West Ham, underlining his importance in setting the tone.

Brighton & Hove Albion: Looking to Rebound

Brighton enter this clash seeking their first win since late November, following a 3-1 loss to Crystal Palace in their most recent outing.

While the Seagulls started the season strongly, a four-game winless run (D2, L2) has seen them lose ground in the race for European qualification.

Despite their struggles, Brighton remain a formidable attacking force on the road, scoring in each of their last nine away matches (W3, D3, L3).

Their resilience in attack could trouble a West Ham side that has struggled defensively at times, but holding onto leads has been a challenge. Fabian Hürzeler’s side have conceded five goals after the 75th minute across their last three away games, dropping crucial points in the process.

Key Player: Tariq Lamptey

The dynamic right-back has been a bright spot for Brighton, contributing two goals and two assists in his last six appearances. His ability to influence both ends of the pitch could be pivotal against a West Ham side vulnerable to wide threats.

Tactical Battle

• West Ham’s Approach: Lopetegui will likely prioritise a structured defensive setup, looking to control midfield through Declan Rice and Lucas Paquetá. West Ham may target Brighton’s defensive vulnerabilities in the latter stages, relying on set-pieces and Paquetá’s penalty expertise to unlock the Seagulls.
• Brighton’s Approach: Hürzeler’s Brighton will aim to dominate possession and stretch West Ham’s defence through Tariq Lamptey and Kaoru Mitoma on the flanks.

Quick transitions and attacking overlaps could exploit West Ham’s defensive inconsistencies, while the Seagulls must remain vigilant against counter-attacks.

What’s at Stake?

For West Ham, a win would provide much-needed momentum and move the Hammers further away from the relegation zone while keeping them in touch with the top half.

In Brighton’s case, three points are crucial to reignite their push for European qualification and end a frustrating winless run that is putting their hopes at risk.

Prediction

Both teams have shown flashes of quality this season but lack the consistency needed to break away from their mid-table battles.

Brighton’s attacking prowess on the road, combined with West Ham’s solid performances at home, should make for an open and competitive game. However, the Seagulls’ inability to close out matches could prove costly once again.

Prediction: West Ham 2-2 Brighton

With both teams needing a win to boost their ambitions, this clash at the London Stadium promises plenty of action and drama. Can West Ham finally end their home H2H drought, or will Brighton rediscover their winning touch? Fans are in for an exciting encounter.

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West Ham v Brighton, 2024/25 | Premier League