If Liverpool win their next 3 games they clinch the Premier League title. Fans hope they will do it the easy way for once. Next up, on matchday 32, the Reds take on East London’s West Ham United.
Liverpool have already beaten the Hammers twice this season, while scoring five goals in each. But both the defeats for West Ham happened under former boss Julen Lopetegui. Graham Potter, who took over in January, has been unbeaten in his last three Premier League trips to Anfield, a record he’ll hope to extend.
Form Guide and Team Performance
Arne Slot has transformed the Merseyside outfit into a juggernaut in his debut season, with a win percentage of 70% across all competitions. The Dutchman’s main weapon, Mohamed Salah, now buoyed by his new contract, could do a lot of damage to this West Ham side.
The top-of-the-table Reds saw their 26-match unbeaten run come crashing to an end against Fulham last weekend though. The loss at Craven Cottage preceded a hard-fought win over Leicester and a gritty draw with Everton, indicating a slight dip in their otherwise relentless form.
The Hammers, in 16th position with 35 points have struggled this season. Graham Potter’s appointment in January has brought improvements, but they’re winless in their last four league matches including the draw against Bournemouth last time out.
West Ham have scored 38 goals scored and conceded 54, a statistic that highlights their struggle for balance, though they’ve drawn at tough grounds like Aston Villa and Everton under Potter.
Sitting just 5 points above the relegation zone, Hammers are looking for a boost to their mid-table aspirations. Potter will look to the leadership of Soucek and Bowen to provide a positive result at Anfield.
The touch from Mo and Cody with the finish
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) December 29, 2024pic.twitter.com/0DJkTrKY82
Key Players to Watch Liverpool
- Mohamed Salah: The Egyptian has gone four games without a goal or assist, his longest barren run since March 2021, making him hungry to rediscover his magic.
- Luis Díaz: The Colombian forward has delivered in each of his last four league games. His pace could exploit West Ham’s high line.
- Cody Gakpo: The Dutch winger would be eager to show that he’s more than just one trick pony.
West Ham United
- Jarrod Bowen: Bowen’s 6 goals and 5 assists this season underline his importance. He scored in all three games against Liverpool last season.
- Mohammed Kudus: The Ghanaian midfielder is West Ham’s main attacking threat. His direct running and flair troubled Liverpool in December
- Lucas Paqueta: The creative Brazilian will aim to exploit Liverpool’s midfield if they’re off-pace.
Scoreline Prediction: Liverpool 4 – 1 West Ham United
Man of the Match – Mohamed Salah
- Key Stat: At Anfield, West Ham haven’t won since 2015, losing their last nine visits.
- Both Teams to Score (BTTS): West Ham have scored in 9 of their last 10 away games, while Liverpool’s defense has conceded in 4 of their last 5 matches.
- Anytime Goalscorer: Mohamed Salah loves to score against West Ham. He has 11 goals in 15 Premier League games against them.
- Over 2.5 Goals: West Ham have been conceding goals all season long and now meet one the top attacking forces in Europe.
Conclusion
Liverpool are set to bounce back at home. They have strong attacking players and a nearly unbeatable record at Anfield. Even after a recent setback, the Reds look ready to take control, while West Ham’s inconsistent form and weak defense make them easy prey.
