Preview: London Stadium hosts a tense battle as West Ham fight for survival
The Premier League returns to Stratford on 24 January with West Ham United desperate to turn a worrying run of results around when they host Sunderland. West Ham arrive sitting 18th after 22 matches, a side that has struggled to convert possession into points this season — just four wins, five draws and a worrying 13 defeats leave them clinging to 17 points. Their recent form reads like a rollercoaster of inconsistency: a morale-boosting win at Tottenham followed by a patch of defeats and draws that underline defensive frailties. The London Stadium, with a capacity of 59,623, will expect a reaction, but West Ham’s home numbers are stark — 13 goals scored at home against 25 conceded — a clear sign that defensive reshuffles have not settled this team.
Sunderland arrive with structure and momentum
Sunderland travel to the capital sitting ninth and with a distinctly steadier profile. Their 8 wins, 9 draws and 5 losses give them a solid 33 points and the data shows an organised side: 23 goals scored and 23 conceded overall. Away from home, Sunderland’s scoring has been more conservative (5 away goals), but their defensive record away is respectable when compared with West Ham’s porous home form. Recent results have also been encouraging — a win over Crystal Palace last outing and a strong showing across cup and league fixtures — and their discipline and shutout ability are reflected in a notable seven clean sheets recorded this season. Brian Brobbey’s recognition as Sunderland’s best performer in the last match highlights a team capable of efficient finishing when opportunities are created.
A quick glance at the head-to-head adds spice: Sunderland routed West Ham 3-0 in the opening meeting of the season, a psychological edge that cannot be ignored. Match officials will be led by Thomas Bramall, and with West Ham’s defensive record (44 conceded this season) clashing against Sunderland’s organised approach, the tactical contest should be intriguing.
Market view and tactical take
Bookmakers currently price West Ham slightly shorter at 2.52 for the win, with Sunderland available at 2.82 and the draw at 3.20. That market suggests a tight game, but the numbers underpinning each side point toward value on the away side: West Ham’s horrible home defensive record and inconsistent form tilt the balance, while Sunderland’s compact defensive shape and recent positive results argue for an upset in Stratford. For readers wanting to refine approach to markets, check Soccer betting tips and the choice of markets to match tactics to markets, and remember the psychological side of wagering with How to have emotional control when placing bets?.
Betting suggestion: Back Sunderland to win (Away) at around 2.82. Rationale: Sunderland’s superior league position, recent momentum and stronger defensive profile versus West Ham’s alarming goals-against tally and poor home record create value on the away victory in the 1X2 market. Keep stakes sensible and consider a smaller unit if you prefer a cautious approach.
