Aston Villa vs. Brighton: Preview, Predictions, and Lineups

Aston Villa and Brighton face off in a pivotal Premier League clash on Monday night, with both sides aiming to end 2024 on a high. Ninth-placed Villa will look to bounce back from their Boxing Day defeat, while 10th-placed Brighton seek their first win in seven matches.

Match Preview

Villa Seeking Redemption

Unai Emery’s Aston Villa were handed a 3-0 defeat by Newcastle United on Boxing Day, a match marred by Jhon Duran’s red card. Despite their recent struggles, Villa have been strong at home, and a victory would solidify their position in the top half of the table.

Brighton’s Form Woes

Brighton’s winless run now stands at six games, but their performances have been better than results suggest. Manager Fabian Hurzeler will be hoping his side can finally turn their xG dominance into a much-needed victory at Villa Park.

Team News

Aston Villa

• Suspensions: Jhon Duran begins his three-match ban after his Boxing Day dismissal. Matty Cash is also suspended due to an accumulation of yellow cards.
• Injuries: Jacob Ramsey (hamstring) is nearing a return and could feature.
• Expected Changes: Ollie Watkins will lead the line in Duran’s absence, while Ezri Konsa is likely to fill in at right-back.

Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Martinez; Konsa, Carlos, Torres, Digne; Kamara, Onana; Bailey, McGinn, Rogers; Watkins.

Brighton

• Injuries: Danny Welbeck, Ferdi Kadioglu, James Milner, and Jack Hinshelwood remain sidelined. Mats Wieffer is doubtful after missing the Brentford game.
• Returns: Solly March made his comeback against Brentford and could start.
• Expected Changes: March may replace one of Brighton’s attacking midfielders, while the backline remains unchanged.

Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Verbruggen; Lamptey, Van Hecke, Dunk, Estupinan; Baleba, O’Riley; Minteh, Pedro, Mitoma; Rutter.

Key Players to Watch

Aston Villa

• Ollie Watkins: Stepping into the starting role, Watkins will need to deliver up front to fill the void left by Duran.
• Boubacar Kamara: The midfield enforcer will be crucial in breaking up Brighton’s fluid attacks.
• Leon Bailey: His pace and creativity could exploit Brighton’s defensive gaps.

Brighton

• Joao Pedro: The Brazilian playmaker has been instrumental in Brighton’s attacking transitions.
• Kaoru Mitoma: Known for his dribbling prowess, Mitoma will look to create havoc on the wings.
• Solly March: Fresh from his return, March could provide the attacking spark Brighton have been missing.

Head-to-Head Record

• Last Five Meetings:
  • Aston Villa: 4 wins
  • Brighton: 1 win
  • Draws: 0
• Last Meeting: Brighton 1-0 Aston Villa (May 5, 2024)

Prediction

Why Brighton Could Edge It

Brighton’s recent performances have been far better than their results, with wasted chances and unlucky moments contributing to their winless streak. According to advanced metrics, the Seagulls should have secured four wins in their last six matches.

Why Villa Might Struggle

Villa’s inconsistency has been a recurring theme this season. While they’ve been formidable at home, the absence of Duran and Cash could disrupt their rhythm, making them vulnerable against Brighton’s high-pressing style.

Final Prediction: Aston Villa 1-2 Brighton

FAQs

1. What time does the match start?

The game kicks off at 19:45 GMT / 14:45 ET / 11:45 PT.

2. Where will the match be played?

The match will take place at Villa Park in Birmingham, England.

3. Who is suspended for Aston Villa?

Jhon Duran and Matty Cash are suspended for this match.

4. What is Brighton’s current form?

Brighton are winless in their last six matches but have drawn their previous two games.

5. What is the prediction for the match?

Brighton are predicted to win 2-1, capitalizing on Villa’s recent inconsistencies.