West Ham United will host Bournemouth in the second round of the EFL Cup at the London Stadium on Wednesday. Both teams have had a decent start to the season, and this cup clash presents an opportunity for both sides to build momentum.
With the home advantage, West Ham will look to capitalise on their recent win against Crystal Palace, while Bournemouth aims to shake off the disappointment of their 1-1 draw with Newcastle.
Match Preview
West Ham United
West Ham United Recent Form
West Ham have had a mixed start to their season under new manager Julen Lopetegui.
After an opening-day defeat to Aston Villa at home, the Hammers bounced back with an impressive 2-0 victory against Crystal Palace.
Tomas Soucek and Jarrod Bowen were on the scoresheet, providing Lopetegui with his first win in charge.
Historically, West Ham have performed well in the EFL Cup, reaching the quarter-finals last season before being knocked out by Liverpool.
West Ham United Injury News
West Ham are likely to field several new signings, including Niclas Fullkrug and Crysencio Summerville, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Jean-Clair Todibo also set for debuts.
They will aim to rotate their squad, possibly resting key players like Jarrod Bowen and Lucas Paqueta. There are no major new injury concerns reported.
Bournemouth
Bournemouth Recent Form
Bournemouth have started their season with two consecutive 1-1 draws, showing resilience but also missing out on potential victories.
Their most recent match against Newcastle United ended in controversy with a VAR decision ruling out a late goal by Dango Ouattara, which would have given them all three points.
Bournemouth's form in cup competitions has been steady, though they have been eliminated in the fourth round in each of the past two seasons.
Bournemouth Injury News
Bournemouth's squad is adjusting to life without Dominic Solanke. New signing Evanilson, who debuted recently, is expected to feature prominently, along with potential starts for Dango Ouattara, Alex Scott, and Luis Sinisterra.
Injuries to Enes Unal, Tyler Adams, and David Brooks continue to keep them sidelined.
Players To Watch
West Ham Player To Watch
Niclas Fullkrug - The German forward is expected to lead the line for West Ham. His presence in the box and ability to score goals will be crucial in breaking down Bournemouth's defence.
Bournemouth Player To Watch
Evanilson - The new signing will be keen to make an impact. His agility and attacking threat will be vital for Bournemouth if they are to get a positive result at the London Stadium.
Prediction
West Ham’s home advantage and a deeper squad make them slight favourites for this clash.
While Bournemouth are not easy to break down, West Ham’s attacking options and recent form suggest they have enough firepower to edge out a win.
An interesting betting angle could be both teams scoring, given Bournemouth's propensity to find the net despite not securing wins.
Our Prediction: West Ham United 2-1 Bournemouth
