The Premier League returns with a solitary fixture this Sunday before the international break, as West Ham United welcome Aston Villa to the London Stadium. Both teams come into the match on a high after impressive European victories, setting the stage for an intriguing encounter.
On-a-high Hammers ready for Villa
West Ham are brimming with confidence following their emphatic 5-0 thrashing of Freiburg in the Europa League, securing their place in the quarter-finals. This victory extends their unbeaten domestic run to three games, with a draw against Burnley keeping them firmly in the European qualification picture. Currently sitting seventh in the table, the Hammers are just a point behind Manchester United and will be looking to close the gap further.
Unai Emery’s Aston Villa side also enjoyed European success, overcoming Ajax 4-0 on aggregate in the Europa Conference League. However, their domestic form hasn’t quite matched their European exploits, as they were thrashed by Tottenham Hotspur in their last Premier League outing. This defeat leaves them vulnerable in the top-four race, with Tottenham hot on their heels.
The historical record between these two sides paints a contrasting picture. While Villa secured a comfortable 4-1 victory against West Ham in October, ending their 10-game winless streak against the Hammers, their last away win at the London Stadium came all the way back in 2011.
West Ham will be looking to capitalise on their strong home form, boasting only one defeat in their last 14 games at the London Stadium (excluding the 6-0 humiliation against Arsenal). Villa, on the other hand, are unbeaten away from home in all competitions this year, making for a potentially tight contest.
This match carries significant weight for both teams. West Ham are aiming to solidify their European position, while Villa desperately need a win to keep their Champions League hopes alive. The outcome could significantly impact the top-four race and the battle for European qualification
