Manchester City will host West Ham United at the Etihad Stadium on January 4, 2025, aiming to build on their recent victory over Leicester City. The Africa Football’s editor Bill Eshun looks into upcoming match and provides his prediction.
• City have won 14 of their last 15 home games against West Ham.
• West Ham have only won two of their last five Premier League matches.
City’s Revival Underway?
After a rocky patch of three defeats in five games, Manchester City seemed to rediscover their form with a crucial 2-0 win over Leicester City, thanks to goals from Savinho and Erling Haaland. While their season appeared to be slipping away, the victory provided a much-needed confidence boost for Pep Guardiola’s side.
Now back at the Etihad, where they have dominated West Ham historically, City will be confident of securing another win to strengthen their position in the league.
West Ham’s Inconsistent Form
Julen Lopetegui’s West Ham have struggled for consistency, winning only three of their last 10 league games and losing four. The Hammers sit in the bottom half of the table, and the pressure on Lopetegui is mounting despite managing a squad full of talent.
A win over Manchester City could significantly improve their standing and ease some of the pressure, but their inconsistency against top teams leaves doubts about their ability to deliver.
Mohammed Kudus: A Star Under the Spotlight
Despite West Ham’s crushing 5-0 defeat to Liverpool in their last outing, Mohammed Kudus shone with his close control, strength, and exceptional dribbling. The Ghanaian playmaker is currently tied for first in successful take-ons this season (44), alongside Everton’s Illiman Ndiaye.
However, Kudus’s goal contribution remains under scrutiny, with just three goals to his name this season. If he can make an impact against City, it could bolster his case for a future big move, similar to his standout performance on the final day of last season.
Team News
• West Ham: Antonio, Bowen, and Fabianski are out due to injuries.
• Manchester City: Four players, including Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, are sidelined long-term.
The Odds
According to 1xBet:
• Manchester City Win: 1.34
• West Ham Win: 8.65
• Draw: 6.01
Prediction
West Ham have a history of struggling against top teams, particularly at the Etihad, where City have an overwhelming head-to-head advantage. With City back in form and at home, this match looks like a straightforward win for Guardiola’s men.
Scoreline: Manchester City 2-0 West Ham
