Kick-off: Tuesday, 3rd December 2024, at 20:15 GMT
Leicester City host West Ham United at the King Power Stadium on Tuesday evening in a Premier League encounter. Leicester are aiming to move into the top half of the table, while West Ham look to maintain their strong push for a European spot. Both teams come into this game with contrasting form and ambitions, setting up an intriguing clash.
Form Analysis: Leicester City
Leicester City have had a challenging season, currently sitting 16th in the Premier League with 10 points from 11 matches. Their record includes two wins, four draws, and five losses, indicating a struggle to find consistent form. Offensively, they have scored 14 goals, averaging just over one goal per game, while defensively, they have conceded 21 goals, highlighting vulnerabilities at the back.
In their last five matches, Leicester have drawn two and lost three. A recent 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town showcased their resilience, with James Maddison providing the equaliser. However, a 3-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest exposed defensive frailties. Key players for Leicester include Maddison, who has been pivotal in attack, and Jonny Evans, who anchors the defence.
Form Analysis: West Ham United
West Ham United are experiencing a mixed season, positioned 14th in the Premier League with 12 points from 11 matches. Their record of three wins, three draws, and five losses reflects their inconsistency. The Hammers have scored 13 goals and conceded 19, indicating issues in both attack and defence.
In their last five matches, West Ham have won one, drawn one, and lost three. A notable 2-1 victory over Manchester United demonstrated their potential, with Jarrod Bowen and Michail Antonio finding the net. However, a 3-0 loss to Nottingham Forest highlighted their defensive struggles. Bowen has been a key figure in attack, while Declan Rice continues to dominate the midfield.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Historically, West Ham have had the upper hand in this fixture, winning three of the last five meetings, with Leicester winning one and one match ending in a draw. Their most recent encounter in May 2023 saw Leicester secure a 2-1 victory at the King Power Stadium, with goals from Harvey Barnes and Wout Faes. West Ham’s last win at Leicester came in August 2021, with a 4-1 scoreline.
Tactical Analysis
Leicester City are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on a balanced approach with an emphasis on solid defence and quick transitions. James Maddison will be central to their attacking play, supported by wide players aiming to stretch the opposition. Defensively, Jonny Evans will marshal the backline, aiming to maintain organisation.
West Ham United are likely to adopt a 4-2-3-1 formation, aiming to control the midfield and utilise their wingers to create chances. Michail Antonio will lead the line, with support from the flanks. Declan Rice will play a crucial role in defence, looking to contain Leicester’s wide threats.
Predicted Lineups
- Leicester City (4-2-3-1): Kasper Schmeichel – Ricardo Pereira, Jonny Evans, Caglar Soyuncu, Timothy Castagne – Wilfred Ndidi, Youri Tielemans – Ayoze Perez, James Maddison, Harvey Barnes – Jamie Vardy.
- West Ham United (4-2-3-1): Lukasz Fabianski – Vladimir Coufal, Kurt Zouma, Angelo Ogbonna, Aaron Cresswell – Declan Rice, Tomas Soucek – Jarrod Bowen, Pablo Fornals, Said Benrahma – Michail Antonio.
Betting Options and Odds
- Draw (Odds: 3.30): Given both teams’ recent form and league positions, a draw appears a plausible outcome.
- Under 2.5 Goals (Odds: 1.75): Both teams have struggled offensively, suggesting a low-scoring match.
- Jarrod Bowen to Score Anytime (Odds: 3.50): Bowen’s recent form makes him a viable candidate to find the net.
Betting Tip & Prediction: Leicester City – West Ham United (03.12.2024)
Considering both teams’ form and the stakes involved, a closely contested match is expected. Leicester’s home advantage and resilience may counterbalance West Ham’s experience, leading to a share of the spoils.
Prediction: Draw (Odds: 3.30), with a likely scoreline of 1-1.
OUR Prediction
Leicester City – West Ham United (03.12.2024)
DRAW | Odds: 3,30 |