Newcastle United are among the challengers for a top-four spot and will be looking to strengthen their position as they travel to face West Ham United on March 10, 2025. Africa Football editor Bill Eshun looks into the upcoming Premier League clash.
Key Facts
- Newcastle United (44 points) are three points behind fourth-placed Manchester City.
- West Ham are 16 points above the relegation zone.
Match Overview
Newcastle have been inconsistent in their last five Premier League games, earning just six points.
However, they remain in contention for a European spot. After booking a place in the Carabao Cup final alongside Liverpool, the Magpies are just three points away from the top four.
But they face a relatively tough task, as West Ham have won back-to-back games without conceding and look set to secure survival for at least another season in the league.
Mohammed Kudus to Bring the Magic
Although Mohammed Kudus has been fairly inconsistent this season, he showcased glimpses of his quality in the last two match days against Arsenal. He is currently one of the best dribblers in the Premier League, completing 65 take-ons, and has been directly involved in four league goals—only Tomáš Souček and Jarrod Bowen have recorded more. Kudus has been an undisputed starter under Graham Potter and is expected to start again on Monday.
Related article: Striking Success: Mohammed Kudus’s Meteoric Rise in Salary
The Odds
West Ham’s chances of winning are currently priced at 3.22 according to 1xBet, while Newcastle’s odds stand at 2.20. A draw is priced at 3.83.
Prediction
Newcastle have been the better side in their last five meetings, securing two victories and two draws. Additionally, seven of West Ham’s 14 home games this season have ended in draws, making another stalemate a strong possibility.
Predicted Scoreline: West Ham 1-1 Newcastle
