West Ham United’s struggle to escape the relegation zone continues as they host Newcastle United at the London Stadium on Sunday in matchday ten of the 2025/26 Premier League season. The Hammers, sitting 19th in the table, desperately need a turnaround after a poor start, while the Magpies, currently 12th, look to build on their recent momentum and edge closer to the European qualification spots. This fixture promises intensity, with both sides having contrasting ambitions but equally strong motivation to secure three points.

West Ham United’s Recent Form and Key Stats

West Ham United have endured a torrid start to their campaign, collecting just four points from nine matches (W1, D1, L7). Their latest setback came in a 2-1 defeat to Leeds United, marking their fifth loss in six matches. The Hammers have managed only seven goals all season, making them one of the lowest-scoring sides in the division. Defensively, they have been equally vulnerable, conceding an average of 2.2 goals per game.

At the London Stadium, West Ham’s form has been particularly concerning. They have lost all four of their home league matches this season, conceding 12 goals and scoring just twice. Their inability to find stability at home has left them languishing near the bottom of the table. The team’s attacking output has been inconsistent, with Jarrod Bowen being the only bright spark, scoring three of their seven league goals so far.

Manager Nuno Espírito Santo faces a challenging task in reviving his side’s fortunes. He will be without Oliver Scarles, who underwent shoulder surgery, and Niclas Füllkrug, both sidelined through injury. However, Mateus Fernandes, Kyle Walker-Peters, and Callum Wilson are pushing for starting roles. Nuno is expected to maintain his 4-2-3-1 formation, which can shift into a 3-4-3 or 3-5-2 depending on the match situation. The Hammers’ immediate priority will be to tighten their defense and rediscover some attacking rhythm to avoid sinking deeper into relegation trouble.

Newcastle United’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Newcastle United arrive in London in much better shape, having won five of their last six matches in all competitions. Their most recent victory came in a 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur in the EFL Cup, showcasing their growing confidence and defensive solidity. In the Premier League, the Magpies have accumulated 12 points (W3, D3, L3), sitting comfortably in mid-table and just four points shy of the European qualification zone.

Despite their strong overall form, Newcastle have yet to win away in the league this season, drawing three and losing one of their four away trips. However, their record at the London Stadium is impressive, with four wins and two draws in their last six visits to West Ham. This historical dominance could give them a psychological edge heading into Sunday’s clash.

Coach Eddie Howe has built a well-balanced side that combines defensive discipline with attacking flair. Nick Woltemade has been in outstanding form, scoring four league goals and six in his last nine matches across all competitions. Midfielder Bruno Guimarães has also been influential, contributing three goals and dictating play from midfield. Newcastle’s expected 4-3-3 formation will likely see Woltemade lead the line, supported by Guimarães and possibly Sandro Tonali, who could return to the starting XI. Valentino Livramento and Yoane Wissa remain long-term absentees, while Jacob Murphy is pushing for a start after scoring in the 2-1 win over Fulham.

West Ham United vs Newcastle United Prediction and Tactical Overview

This fixture pits one of the league’s weakest attacks against one of its most organized defenses. West Ham have scored in only two of their last six matches, while Newcastle have conceded just once in their last three league outings. The Hammers’ inability to convert chances, coupled with Newcastle’s defensive resilience, suggests a low-scoring encounter could be on the cards.

Historically, this matchup has favored Newcastle, who have lost just once in their last eight Premier League visits to the London Stadium (W5, D2, L1). The Magpies’ recent form and superior head-to-head record make them favorites, but their lack of away wins this season adds a layer of uncertainty. West Ham, on the other hand, are desperate for points and will likely adopt a cautious approach to avoid another defeat.

Expect Newcastle to control possession and dictate the tempo, while West Ham may rely on counterattacks through Bowen’s pace and creativity. However, given the Hammers’ poor defensive record and Newcastle’s efficiency in front of goal, the visitors appear better equipped to take advantage of key moments in the match.

Probable Lineups West Ham United vs Newcastle United

WEST HAM UNITED (4-2-3-1): Areola; Walker-Peters, Aguerd, Zouma, Emerson; Soucek, Ward-Prowse; Bowen, Paquetá, Kudus; Antonio. Coach: N. Espírito Santo

NEWCASTLE UNITED (4-3-3): Pope; Trippier, Schär, Botman, Burn; Tonali, Guimarães, Longstaff; Murphy, Woltemade, Gordon. Coach: E. Howe

The most likely outcome is a Newcastle United win (2) with a 57% probability. The Draw (X) follows at 23%, while a West Ham United win (1) stands at 20%.