West Ham vs Liverpool: Match Preview, Predictions, and Lineups
Premier League leaders Liverpool travel to London Stadium to face West Ham in their final game of 2024. The Reds are riding high at the top of the table, while the Hammers are looking to end the year on a positive note amid an inconsistent campaign under Julen Lopetegui.
Match Details
- Date: Sunday, December 29, 2024
- Kick-off Time: 17:15 GMT / 12:15 ET / 09:15 PT
- Location: London Stadium, London, England
- Referee: Anthony Taylor
- VAR: Darren England
Recent Form
West Ham (Last 5 Matches)
- Southampton 0-1 West Ham (Dec 26)
- West Ham 1-1 Brighton (Dec 21)
- Bournemouth 1-1 West Ham (Dec 16)
- West Ham 2-1 Wolves (Dec 9)
- Leicester 3-1 West Ham (Dec 3)
The Hammers are unbeaten in their last four matches, but their performances have lacked consistency, and they remain 13th in the table.
Liverpool (Last 5 Matches)
- Liverpool 3-1 Leicester (Dec 26)
- Tottenham 3-6 Liverpool (Dec 22)
- Southampton 1-2 Liverpool (Dec 18)
- Liverpool 2-2 Fulham (Dec 14)
- Girona 0-1 Liverpool (Dec 10)
Liverpool have been in imperious form, winning 13 of their 17 league matches this season. They continue to set the pace at the top of the Premier League.
Head-to-Head Record (Last 5 Matches)
- West Ham: 0 wins
- Liverpool: 4 wins
- Draws: 1
Last Meeting: Liverpool 5-1 West Ham (September 25, 2024) – Carabao Cup
Team News
West Ham
- Out:
- Lukasz Fabianski: Head injury.
- Michail Antonio: Indefinite absence.
- Tomas Soucek, Guido Rodriguez: Suspended.
- Doubtful:
- Max Kilman: Shoulder injury.
- Carlos Soler: Unfit.
Predicted Lineup (4-1-4-1):
Areola; Wan-Bissaka, Mavropanos, Kilman, Emerson; Alvarez; Bowen, Paqueta, Kudus, Summerville; Fullkrug.
Liverpool
- Out:
- Conor Bradley, Ibrahima Konate: Injuries.
- Dominik Szoboszlai: Suspended (yellow card accumulation).
- Doubtful: None.
Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Gomez, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Jones, Gakpo; Diaz.
Tactical Battle
West Ham’s Approach
Julen Lopetegui’s West Ham have struggled to find consistency, but they’ll look to exploit Liverpool’s potential fatigue. The Hammers will rely heavily on Jarrod Bowen’s energy and Mohammed Kudus’ creativity to unlock the Reds’ defense.
Liverpool’s Strategy
Arne Slot’s Liverpool have been relentless this season, excelling in possession and transition. Despite Szoboszlai’s absence, the Reds’ midfield, anchored by Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch, should dominate. Cody Gakpo’s link-up play and Luis Diaz’s movement in attack will be crucial.
Key Players to Watch
West Ham
- Jarrod Bowen: The winger’s work rate and attacking contributions make him West Ham’s most reliable offensive outlet.
- Mohammed Kudus: His flair and creativity will be key to breaking down Liverpool’s defense.
Liverpool
- Mohamed Salah: The Egyptian forward continues to deliver, providing goals and assists in abundance.
- Luis Diaz: Expected to lead the line, Diaz’s pace and finishing will be vital in breaking West Ham’s defensive structure.
Prediction
Liverpool’s dominance this season suggests they’ll head into this match as heavy favorites. West Ham’s inconsistency and lack of defensive solidity make it hard to envision an upset. However, the Reds’ busy schedule and potential fatigue could make this a closer contest than anticipated.
Prediction: West Ham 1-2 Liverpool
FAQs
1. What time is West Ham vs. Liverpool?
The match kicks off at 17:15 GMT / 12:15 ET / 09:15 PT on Sunday, December 29, 2024.
2. Where will the match be played?
The game will take place at London Stadium in London, England.
3. Who are the key players to watch?
For West Ham, Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus are crucial. For Liverpool, Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz will be key.
4. What is Liverpool’s recent form?
Liverpool have won 13 of their 17 league matches this season and are leading the Premier League.
5. How have West Ham performed recently?
West Ham are unbeaten in their last four matches but have struggled to find consistency, sitting 13th in the table.
