Key Points
- West Ham United host Tottenham Hotspur in a keenly anticipated Premier League London derby at the London Stadium on Saturday, 13 September 2025, kick-off at 5:30 pm BST.
- West Ham are buoyed by a recent 3-0 away win at Nottingham Forest but face ongoing pressure after earlier setbacks this season.
- Tottenham, managed by Thomas Frank, aim to regain form following mixed early results, including wins over Burnley and Manchester City but a home loss to Bournemouth.
- Injury woes hit West Ham’s striking options with Niclas Füllkrug (calf), Luis Guilherme and George Earthy sidelined, compelling Jarrod Bowen to act as striker.
- Tottenham’s summer recruits Xavi Simons and Randal Kolo Muani are poised to impact the game, though key injuries affect Solanke, Maddison and Kulusevski.
- West Ham’s expected formation is a 4-3-2-1 with creative impetus from Lucas Paquetá and James Ward-Prowse.
- Tottenham likely to deploy a 4-3-3, focused on pace and direct play through Simons, Kudus and Richarlison.
- Expert predictions are split, some favouring Spurs 2-1, others backing West Ham 1-0 or 2-0; the match promises goals and intensity.
- The fixture features the return of former West Ham player Mohammed Kudus now with Spurs, heightening rivalry stakes.
What Is the Context of the West Ham v Tottenham Match?
This Premier League fixture reignites one of London football’s fiercest rivalries as West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur clash after the September international break. West Ham look to continue the upward trajectory started by a convincing 3-0 victory at Nottingham Forest — their first win this season — that offered a much-needed boost after a difficult few weeks.
Tottenham, under newly installed manager Thomas Frank, have experienced a rollercoaster start to the campaign, securing notable wins over Burnley and Manchester City but faltering in their latest home match. This meeting presents Frank’s first London derby challenge, adding significant pressure to perform well in what is an emotionally charged contest.
Adding narrative spice is the presence of Mohammed Kudus. The former West Ham midfielder, now a Tottenham player, faces his old club, promising a potentially volatile reception from fans in East London.
What Are West Ham’s Squad Challenges and Likely Starting Line-Up?
West Ham’s squad selection is complicated by injuries to key forwards Niclas Füllkrug (calf injury), Luis Guilherme and George Earthy. This severely restricts their attacking options, thrusting Jarrod Bowen into the role of makeshift striker, supported by midfield creators Lucas Paquetá and James Ward-Prowse.
Predicted line-up in a 4-3-2-1 formation:
- Goalkeeper: Mads Hermansen
- Defenders: Kyle Walker-Peters, Konstantinos Mavropanos, Max Kilman, Malick Diouf
- Midfielders: Tomas Soucek, James Ward-Prowse, Soungoutou Magassa
- Attacking Midfielders: Lucas Paquetá, Mateus Fernandes
- Striker: Jarrod Bowen
The bench could include Callum Wilson, an alternative option up front, and Crysencio Summerville, who may return from injury to provide fresh legs.
What Is Tottenham’s Team News and Predicted Line-Up?
Tottenham have strengthened their squad with summer signings Xavi Simons and Randal Kolo Muani, with Simons expected to start and Muani providing impact as a substitute. However, injuries to important players like Dominic Solanke, James Maddison, and Dejan Kulusevski pose concerns.
Anticipated 4-3-3 starting line-up:
- Goalkeeper: Guglielmo Vicario
- Defenders: Pedro Porro, Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, Djed Spence
- Midfield: João Palhinha, Pape Sarr, Rodrigo Bentancur
- Attack: Mohammed Kudus, Xavi Simons, Richarlison
This squad combines experience with youth and pace, seeking to exploit West Ham’s defensive issues.
What Tactical Battle Can Fans Expect?
West Ham are expected to adopt an attacking 4-3-2-1 or 4-3-3 formation, moving away from their previously defensive setups. Midfielders such as Paquetá and Ward-Prowse will be pivotal in creating chances for Bowen upfront, with the team pushing for offensive dominance.
Tottenham will counter with a pacey and direct 4-3-3 system focusing on quick transitions, exploiting wide areas with Simons and Kudus. Midfield control through Palhinha and Bentancur will be critical to dictate the match tempo and support their attackers.
Both sides have displayed attacking intent and vulnerabilities this season, pointing toward an open and thrilling contest.
What Are the Predictions for the Outcome?
Opinions diverge, highlighting the match’s unpredictability:
- Some forecasts anticipate a narrow Tottenham victory by 2-1, citing stronger squad quality and tactical edge.
- Others lean toward West Ham winning 1-0 or 2-0 on home advantage and momentum grounds.
- The game is expected to see multiple goals, with over 2.5 goals predicted, reflecting both teams’ attacking styles and defensive lapses.
Scoring first is considered a key advantage in this tight rivalry.
When and Where Is the Match Taking Place and How to Watch?
The exciting London derby takes place at London Stadium, home of West Ham, with kick-off scheduled for 5:30 pm BST on Saturday, 13 September 2025.
