30/03/2024
The clash between Newcastle United and West Ham United could be crucial in terms of Premier League top positions. Both teams are in tight competition for the top seven spots, which could mean European qualification for the next season. In my analysis, I have taken into account statistical data, the current form of the teams, and preliminary analyses by experts.
Newcastle boasts significant attacking prowess, having scored 59 goals this season, averaging 2.11 goals per game. However, they also have defensive vulnerabilities, conceding 48 goals and keeping clean sheets in only 8 matches. On the other hand, West Ham has scored fewer goals (46) but conceded a similar number (50) and has fewer clean sheets (5).
Newcastle is strong at home; no team has kept them from scoring at St. James’ Park this season. This raises concerns for West Ham, who have failed to keep a clean sheet in any of their last nine league games. However, West Ham is currently unbeaten in four league matches, indicating stability.
Newcastle is dealing with injuries and suspensions that could affect their performance, especially the absence of Sven Botman, which could be a significant loss in defense. At West Ham, the suspension of Edson Alvarez and the injury to Kudus could pose problems, although the latter’s participation is expected.
1) Regarding the outcome, Newcastle’s home advantage, West Ham’s defensive weaknesses, and their high-scoring matches suggest that Newcastle is closer to victory. However, West Ham’s current form and Newcastle’s defensive concerns point to a balanced match, making a draw a likely outcome.
2) Regarding the number of goals, considering both teams’ attacking prowess and defensive vulnerabilities, as well as the fact that an average of five goals has been scored in Newcastle’s matches in 2024, it’s likely that there will be more than 1.5 goals in the game. Both teams strive for attacking football, which could result in an open game with numerous goal-scoring opportunities.
Overall, I expect an exciting and goal-rich match where Newcastle’s home advantage and attacking power, as well as West Ham’s form and resilience, make it difficult to predict a clear winner. Based on statistics and the current state of the teams, a draw or a narrow Newcastle victory with more than 1.5 goals in the match is the most likely outcome.