West Ham United and Brighton & Hove Albion clash in their first match of 2024 after securing impressive wins over top teams from North London. West Ham defeated Arsenal 2-0, while Brighton defeated Tottenham 4-2.
Match Preview
West Ham delivered a commendable defensive performance against Arsenal, securing a win with goals from Tomas Soucek and Dinos Mavropanos.
This victory marked David Moyes’ first away win against Arsenal in 22 attempts. Their recent form has seen three consecutive wins in the league.
Brighton, on the other hand, displayed a stellar attacking performance against Tottenham, clinching a 4-2 victory with two penalties from Joao Pedro, a stunning strike from Jack Hinshelwood, and a remarkable goal by Pervis Estupinan.
Despite their injury crisis, the Seagulls managed to climb to eighth place in the table.
Team News
West Ham might miss Lucas Paqueta due to a knee injury suffered during the Arsenal match. Michail Antonio and Kurt Zouma are also nursing knee issues, while Nayef Aguerd is doubtful due to illness.
Moreover, Mohammed Kudus is set to join the African Cup of Nations.
Brighton will miss Lewis Dunk due to suspension and several injured players, including Joel Veltman, Ansu Fati, Julio Enciso, Kaoru Mitoma, Simon Adingra, Solly March, Adam Webster, and Tariq Lamptey.
Igor and Facundo Buonanotte picked up knocks in the recent game.
Predicted Lineups
West Ham United: (4-2-3-1)
Areola;
Coufal, Ogbonna, Mavropanos, Emerson;
Soucek, Alvarez;
Kudus, Ward-Prowse, Benrahma;
Bowen
Brighton & Hove Albion: (4-3-1-2)
Verbruggen;
Milner, Hinshelwood, Van Hecke, Estupinan;
Gross, Gilmour, Baleba;
Lallana;
Ferguson, Pedro
Prediction: West Ham United 3-1 Brighton & Hove Albion
Expect an exciting encounter with both teams coming off impressive wins. However, West Ham’s relatively stable squad, coupled with Brighton’s injury concerns and the suspension of Dunk, could favor the hosts. West Ham might secure a victory, knocking on the door for a top-four spot.
