Aston Villa welcome West Ham for their FA Cup third-round clash, as both sides set their sights on a strong run in the competition this season.
Billy More Jan 5
Villa Shift Focus to Cup Glory
Aston Villa temporarily step away from their pursuit of European football to focus on progressing in the FA Cup. Unai Emery's side, currently eighth in the Premier League and just four points off the top four, has been in solid form. A recent home victory over Leicester City has bolstered their momentum, but Villa will be keen to improve their FA Cup record, having exited in the third round in seven of the last eight seasons.
West Ham Seek a Fresh Start
West Ham, sitting 13th in the Premier League, will view this match as an opportunity to regain form amid a tough spell. The Hammers have enjoyed more cup success than Villa in recent years, though they haven’t progressed beyond the fifth round since 2016. With back-to-back league defeats against Liverpool and Manchester City, David Moyes' side will aim to reset with a strong performance in the Midlands.
Goals Likely in Clash of Flawed Defenses
Both teams boast potent attacking options but have struggled defensively this season. Villa have managed only one clean sheet in their last 13 league games, though they remain unbeaten in 10 matches at Villa Park. Similarly, West Ham have conceded nine goals in their previous two outings, albeit against formidable opposition in Liverpool and Manchester City.
Key Absentees and Players to Watch
Villa will be without top scorer Jhon Duran due to suspension, while West Ham will miss Jarrod Bowen, sidelined with a fractured foot. Despite these absences, there is no shortage of attacking talent. Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers have combined for 14 league goals for Villa and are expected to lead the line. For West Ham, Lucas Paqueta and Mohammed Kudus, with three goals each, will be crucial in the absence of Bowen.
Recent Form Highlights Contrasting Fortunes
Villa have been inconsistent in their last five matches, securing two wins, two losses, and a draw. Notable performances include a 2-1 win over Manchester City and a 2-1 victory against Leicester, though they suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat at Newcastle. Meanwhile, West Ham have managed just one win in their last five, a narrow 1-0 victory over Southampton, alongside two draws and two significant losses to Liverpool (5-0) and Manchester City (4-1).
Head-to-Head History
Since 2020, these sides have met 10 times in the Premier League, with West Ham dominating early in this period, winning five consecutive games. However, Villa have turned the tide in recent encounters, going unbeaten in the last four matchups. Their most recent meeting saw Villa secure a 2-1 victory, with goals from Amadou Onana and Jhon Duran. This will be the first FA Cup tie between the two since 1980.
Prediction: Villa’s Home Form to Prevail
Aston Villa's exceptional home record, with just two losses in all competitions at Villa Park this season, gives them the edge. Emery’s men have won four of their last five home games, including impressive victories against Manchester City and Brentford. West Ham, on the other hand, have struggled defensively and away from home, conceding nine goals in their last two league matches. Expect Villa to capitalize on their momentum and secure progression to the next round.
