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**Meta Title:** West Ham vs Tottenham: Premier League Preview & Prediction (May 4)

**Meta Description:** Expert EPL predictions & betting tips for West Ham vs Tottenham (May 4). Analysis, team news, form guide for this Premier League London derby at London Stadium.

# West Ham vs Tottenham: Premier League London Derby Preview & Predictions

Get ready for a crucial English Premier League clash as West Ham United host London rivals Tottenham Hotspur at the London Stadium. This highly anticipated football fixture is scheduled for **Sunday, May 4, 2025, kicking off at 13:00 GMT (1 PM UK time)**. Both sides are navigating challenging periods, making this EPL encounter vital for momentum and league position. Read on for our full match preview, EPL predictions, betting insights, and tactical analysis.

## Match Prediction and Scoreline

Based on current form and historical context, this London derby looks set to be a tightly contested affair, potentially ending honours even.

**Predicted Score:** West Ham 1 – 1 Tottenham

### Betting Insights & Probability:

*   **Winner Odds (Hypothetical):** West Ham (e.g., 11/5), Draw (e.g., 5/2), Tottenham (e.g., 6/5) - *Odds are illustrative.*
*   **Both Teams To Score (BTTS):** Yes – Both teams have shown defensive vulnerabilities recently.
*   **Over/Under 2.5 Goals:** Under 2.5 Goals – Considering both teams' recent struggles, a high-scoring game isn't guaranteed, though derby intensity could change that.
*   **Probability Breakdown (Estimated):** West Ham Win: 30%, Draw: 40%, Tottenham Win: 30%

Look for value in the draw market or BTTS bets for this EPL fixture. These score predictions and Premier League betting tips reflect the teams' recent performances.

## Key Factors and Expected Outcome

Several key match factors will likely influence the expected EPL outcome at the London Stadium:

*   **Form:** Both West Ham and Tottenham enter this match in poor form. West Ham were winless in six league games leading up to their late April clash with Brighton (D3, L3 in the six prior), while Spurs had lost four of their last five EPL matches before this fixture.
*   **Morale:** West Ham's morale appeared low following their 1-1 draw with relegated Southampton in mid-April, highlighted by Niclas Fullkrug's scathing post-match comments about mentality and motivation. Tottenham's confidence may also be fragile after recent defeats, including losses to Nottingham Forest and Wolves.
*   **Injuries & Squad Depth:** West Ham faced several injury concerns in late April (Antonio, Summerville confirmed out; Alvarez, Wan-Bissaka, Cresswell questionable then). *Note: This injury information is based on late April reports and may have changed.* Tottenham's specific team news wasn't detailed in recent reports provided. West Ham also possess one of the Premier League's oldest average starting XIs, which manager Graham Potter noted could impact their physical capacity late in games.
*   **Tactics & Management:** Graham Potter is still trying to implement his style at West Ham, admitting they often rely on counter-attacks rather than controlling games. His side has struggled to hold leads, dropping deep defensively. Tottenham, despite poor results, typically aim for a more proactive approach, but their execution has been lacking. The tactical battle between Potter's setup and Spurs' response will be crucial.
*   **Home Advantage:** West Ham will benefit from playing at the London Stadium, hoping their home support can lift a team struggling for confidence.
*   **Head-to-Head:** Tottenham secured a convincing 4-1 victory in the reverse fixture earlier this season (October 19, 2024).

**Expected Outcome:** A tense, potentially cagey London derby where both teams are desperate to avoid defeat. West Ham's home advantage might be offset by their recent fragility and mentality concerns. Expect moments of quality mixed with potential errors under pressure.

## Recent Team Form and Key Players to Watch

### West Ham United

*   **Last 5 Known EPL Results (prior to Brighton match on Apr 26):** D-L-D-L-D (vs Southampton, Liverpool, Bournemouth, Wolves, Everton)
*   **Form Summary:** The Hammers were on a six-match winless run in the Premier League heading into late April, struggling for consistency and dropping points from winning positions.
*   **Injuries/Suspensions (as of late April):**
    *   Out: Michail Antonio, Crysencio Summerville
    *   Questionable: Edson Alvarez, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Aaron Cresswell
    *   *Note: This information requires confirmation closer to matchday.*
*   **Key Players:**
    *   **Niclas Fullkrug:** The German striker has been involved in goals recently (1 goal, 2 assists in 3 starts prior to Brighton game) and showed passion with his post-match comments. His hold-up play and finishing will be vital. Averaging a goal or assist every 108 minutes (as of late April).
    *   **Jarrod Bowen:** Scored against Southampton and remains a key attacking threat with his pace and directness.
    *   **Lucas Paqueta & Mohammed Kudus:** Provide creativity and flair, but need to influence the game consistently.

### Tottenham Hotspur

*   **Last 5 EPL Results:** L-L-W-L-L (vs Nottm Forest, Wolves, Southampton, Chelsea, Fulham)
*   **Form Summary:** Spurs' form has been highly inconsistent, with only one win in their last five league outings prior to this match. Heavy defeats to Wolves (4-2) and a home loss to Forest (1-2) highlight their recent struggles.
*   **Injuries/Suspensions:** No specific injury updates for Tottenham were available in the provided information for this period. Check official club news closer to the date.
*   **Key Players:**
    *   Tottenham's established attacking players (like Son Heung-min, Richarlison - *though not explicitly mentioned in recent snippets*) will need to rediscover their form to break down West Ham.
    *   The midfield battle will be key; Spurs need to control possession better than in recent losses.
    *   Defensive solidity is required after conceding heavily against Wolves.

## Tactical Preview

*   **Likely Formations:**
    *   West Ham (Predicted): 4-2-3-1 – This formation was used against Southampton and Brighton, offering a balance between defence and attack, likely featuring Fullkrug centrally supported by Bowen, Kudus, and Paqueta.
    *   Tottenham (Possible): 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 – Spurs often favour attacking setups, but recent results might prompt tactical adjustments.
*   **Styles of Play:**
    *   **West Ham:** Graham Potter aims for possession football but has acknowledged his team currently relies more on counter-attacks and struggles to maintain intensity after scoring, often dropping deep. Expect them to be organised defensively but potentially vulnerable late on.
    *   **Tottenham:** Will likely try to dominate possession and press high, but their effectiveness in breaking down organised defences and avoiding counter-attacks has been questionable recently.
*   **Key Tactical Battles:**
    *   **Fullkrug vs. Spurs Centre-Backs:** Can the German target man occupy the Spurs defence and bring teammates into play?
    *   **West Ham Midfield vs. Spurs Midfield:** Control of the central areas will be vital. Can Ward-Prowse and potentially Soler or Alvarez (if fit) disrupt Spurs' rhythm?
    *   **Spurs Attackers vs. West Ham Defence:** Can Tottenham's forwards find space against a West Ham side that might sit deeper, especially if they take the lead?

This EPL tactical analysis suggests a clash of styles, with West Ham potentially looking to frustrate and hit on the break, while Spurs aim to impose their game.

## Summary and Key Takeaways

This Premier League London derby pits two out-of-form teams against each other. West Ham's home advantage and desperation for points are countered by poor recent results, questionable morale, and tactical inconsistencies under Graham Potter. Tottenham possess quality but have struggled badly on the road recently and need a response after damaging defeats.

Our prediction leans towards a **1-1 draw**, reflecting both teams' difficulties in securing wins.

*   **Key Betting Angles:** Consider **Both Teams To Score (Yes)** and the **Draw** market.
*   **Fantasy Football Tips:**
    *   **Niclas Fullkrug (WHU):** Could be involved in goals given his recent stats and central role.
    *   **Jarrod Bowen (WHU):** Remains West Ham's most likely source of a goal from open play.
    *   **Consider avoiding defenders** from both sides due to recent leaky performances.

**Final Thought:** Expect a tense London derby atmosphere at the London Stadium. While both teams need the win, their recent form suggests a cautious match could unfold, potentially decided by fine margins or a late goal. Don't be surprised if it's a hard-fought battle with points shared in this crucial EPL encounter.