Match Preview: English Premier League - Newcastle United VS West Ham United

English Premier League - Newcastle United VS West Ham United
Match Time: 30-03-2024 20:30 Saturday (GMT+8)
Football Livescore | Match Prediction & Tips
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The Premier League prepares for the much-anticipated face-off between Newcastle United and West Ham United at St James' Park, following a temporary halt due to the international break. Both clubs aim to fortify their top-seven opportunities on Saturday.

Recently, Newcastle's FA Cup aspirations died down following a quarter-final defeat against holders Manchester City, while the Irons managed a 1-1 draw at home versus Aston Villa.

In the quarter-final against Man City, Newcastle's lack of aggression in the final third led to their downfall, marked by two unfortunate deflections in the first half. This, following a disheartening 3-2 defeat in the Premier League against Chelsea, puts Eddie Howe's squad in a challenging position, four points behind West Ham United.

The defensive struggles of Howe's men seem to be a roadblock in their European bid, with the team allowing multiple goals in seven of their last nine Premier League games. However, their most recent home game culminated in a triumphant 3-0 win against Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The injury-plagued West Ham, having achieved a nine-game streak without keeping a clean sheet, rank third in this unfavorable league statistic. Despite their defensive troubles, the Hammers demonstrated an impressive offensive during the 5-0 Europa League last-16 second-leg triumph over Freiburg. Consequently, they advanced to the quarter-finals against Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen.

A draw game against Aston Villa on March 17 might have been a setback for the ambitious West Ham, with Michail Antonio's diving header counteracted by Nicolo Zaniolo's equaliser. Currently, the team is on a four-game unbeaten run in the top flight, clinging to the seventh position, though under threat from Brighton & Hove Albion.

With injury problems affecting both teams and key players rendered inactive, it remains to be seen how they adapt. For Newcastle, Sven Botman is out for the season due to a damaged ACL, along with others like Sandro Tonali (suspended), Callum Wilson (chest), Joelinton (thigh) and Nick Pope (shoulder). The talented Lewis Miley is also expected to be sidelined for six weeks due to a back issue.

For West ham, Edson Alvarez's booking incurs a two-match suspension. Additionally, a knee injury to Mohammed Kudus and minor doubts over Lucas Paqueta and Nayef Aguerd further depress the team spirit.

Despite facing trials and tribulations, both teams look forward to the game in hopes of improving their season's trajectories. The game is predicted to end in Newcastle's favor, with a 2-1 score.

Match Prediction:
Newcastle United to win