The Hammers continue their European charge
This round-of-16 tie between Sevilla and West Ham looks to be a cracker on paper. Both sides are doing well domestically, with Sevilla having a rich history in this competition. This will be West Ham's biggest test to date.
Sevilla leading the chasing pack
Their pedigree in the Europa League can't go unnoticed. They're also currently second in La Liga, but still some eight points off leaders Real Madrid.
Last three results:
- Dinamo Zagreb 1-0 Sevilla (24.02.22)
- Sevilla 2-1 Real Betis (27.02.22)
- Alaves 0-0 Sevilla (04.03.22)
Winning just three in their last ten outings, Sevilla haven't found themselves in their finest form. A 0-0 draw with Alaves is hardly something to shout about, with their opponents that day occupying 19th spot in La Liga.
Sevilla will be without Thomas Delaney who is suspended. Erik Lamela, Suso, Diego Carlos, Fernando, Alejandro Gomez and Anthony Martial all missed the Alaves game with injury.
Moyes' men march on
Group topping West Ham face one of the toughest tests for any team in this round-of-16 tie. But their dominance in the group stage and good position in the Premier League should give them confidence
Last three results:
- West Ham 1-0 Wolves (27.02.22)
- Southampton 3-1 West Ham (02.03.22)
- Liverpool 1-0 West Ham (05.03.22)
One win in their last five games in all competitions doesn't bode well for David Moyes' side. Their 1-0 loss to Liverpool was actually a decent performance at Anfield for the Hammers. But their wasteful finishing cost them dearly in that game.
They've struggled for goals recently, and if this trend continues in Seville, they could really struggle come Thursday.
Some interesting trivia:
- Sevilla have progressed from 29 of their last 31 knockout stage ties in the UEFA Cup/Europa League (94%), progressing from all three ties against English opponents in this period.
- Sevilla's Anthony Martial has scored six goals against West Ham in his career, only scoring more against Everton (7).
- This is the latest stage that West Ham have reached in European competition since the 1980-81 Cup Winners Cup.
The Verdict:
While West Ham will certainly be well up for this game, their recent fixture congestion in the Premier League and shaky form will give their opponents confidence.
That's why I'm going with Sevilla to win on Thursday with betway.
