This is a crucial early-season clash in the Premier League, often referred to as a “relegation six-pointer,” as two struggling sides look to climb out of the lower reaches of the table. Newly-promoted Leeds United, buoyed by their return to the top flight, will be desperate to put their statistical dominance into points, while West Ham United are under pressure with a new manager, Nuno Espírito Santo, still searching for his first win. The atmosphere at Elland Road is expected to be electric for this Friday night fixture.
Match Details
CompetitionDateKick-offVenuePremier LeagueFriday, October 24, 20258:00 PM BSTElland Road, Leeds
Team Form and Analysis for Leeds United (Team 1)
Leeds United currently sit 16th in the table with 8 points from 8 games (W2, D2, L4).
Domestic Form (Last 5 League Games)D-L-W-D-L
Domestic Form: Leeds have had a tough start, with only one win and two draws in their last five league outings. Their recent form is particularly concerning, coming off back-to-back defeats against Tottenham Hotspur and Burnley (a 2-0 loss where they were statistically dominant but lacked a cutting edge). The team’s Expected Points (xP) tally is significantly higher than their actual points, suggesting they are underperforming their opportunities.
European Performance: Not applicable (Not competing in European competition this season).
Key Player: Dominic Calvert-Lewin. The veteran striker is still finding his feet but remains the focal point of the attack. He has a solid record against the Hammers (6 goals in 13 matches) and will be relied upon to convert the chances Leeds are creating.
Team Form and Analysis for West Ham United (Team 2)
West Ham United are in the relegation zone, sitting 19th in the table with just 4 points from 8 games (W1, D1, L6).
Domestic Form (Last 5 League Games)L-L-D-L-L
Domestic Form: The Hammers are in crisis, having failed to win a league game since the opening day of the season. They’ve only managed one point from their last five league matches. New manager Nuno Espírito Santo has yet to secure a victory since taking over, with two losses and a draw in his first three games. Their last outing was a disappointing 2-0 home loss to Brentford, marking their worst start to a top-flight season in decades.
European Performance: Not applicable (Not competing in European competition this season).
Key Player: Jarrod Bowen. As the team’s top scorer this season, his pace and directness will be vital. With the team struggling for form, Bowen’s individual brilliance and threat on the counter-attack will be the primary source of hope.
Head-to-Head Record
In 111 meetings across all competitions, Leeds United holds the advantage:
Leeds United Wins: 49
Draws: 30
West Ham United Wins: 32
Recent Premier League Meetings (Last 6): West Ham has the more favorable recent record, having won four of the last six top-flight encounters (W4, D1, L1). The last fixture, in May 2023, ended in a 3-1 win for West Ham at the London Stadium. The last meeting at Elland Road was a thrilling 2-2 draw in January 2023.
Players to Watch
TeamPlayerRole & DescriptionLeeds UnitedAo TanakaMidfield engine. His energy and ability to control the tempo from central midfield will be crucial for Leeds to dominate possession and supply the attack.Leeds UnitedDaniel JamesWinger. Known for his blistering pace, he provides a direct threat and will be key in exploiting space behind West Ham’s full-backs, especially if fit for a start.West HamCrysencio SummervilleWinger/Attacking Midfielder. The former Leeds star, now with the Hammers, will be motivated to perform against his old club. His creativity and goal threat are vital.West HamTomáš SoučekMidfielder. A powerful presence in the midfield, his ability to break up play and pose a major aerial threat on set-pieces could be the difference in a tight game. He is set to make his 200th Premier League appearance.
Prediction
This fixture is between two teams low on confidence and desperate for points. Leeds United have shown promise in their performances, particularly at home, but their inability to convert chances is a major weakness. West Ham’s morale is low, and the new manager bounce has yet to materialize. Given Leeds’ home advantage and the defensive frailties West Ham has displayed (18 goals conceded in 8 games), the Whites have a slight edge. However, the anxiety surrounding the ‘must-win’ nature of the game may lead to a cautious approach. A tight, nervy match is likely.
Prediction: Leeds United 1 – 1 West Ham United
Live Stream and TV Broadcast Information
Country/Region (UK & US)Channel/PlatformUnited Kingdom (UK)Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Premier League, Sky Sports Ultra HDRUnited States (US)USA Network, FuboTV, UNIVERSO
Live Commentary: Live audio commentary will also be available in the UK on talkSPORT.
Mobile & PC | Auto Quality
Mobile & PC | Auto Quality
