Premier League Clash: West Ham United's Survival Battle Against Brighton & Hove Albion - Tactical Analysis and Form Assessment

West Ham United currently sits 18th in the league, deeply entrenched in the relegation zone, and faces immense pressure to secure points to improve their situation. They will be eager to take advantage of their home advantage. Brighton & Hove Albion occupies 13th place, with a comfortable lead over the relegation places, but their recent form has been inconsistent. Both teams are experiencing a dip in form. West Ham United is winless in their last six matches, with obvious defensive vulnerabilities. Brighton & Hove Albion has also struggled, with more losses than wins in their last six games, although their away performances have been decent, but not rock-solid. West Ham United's home advantage and stronger motivation to avoid relegation appear to give them the edge in terms of fighting spirit. However, their overall form and defensive issues cannot be ignored. While Brighton & Hove Albion has room for improvement, there are doubts about their ability to immediately find their rhythm away from home. The initial handicap offered West Ham United a +0.25 handicap, which is a significant contrast to their current league standings. Brighton & Hove Albion, in mid-table, has double the points of the home team. The initial handicap is a shallow one, which suggests doubts about the away team. The odds on Brighton & Hove Albion have been increasing. Although Brighton & Hove Albion has a strong squad, their recent form is poor, with a low win rate in their last six league matches, and injuries to key defenders have weakened their defence. West Ham United's determination to avoid relegation is undeniable, and they will give their all at home. Their history against Brighton & Hove Albion shows they are not afraid of them, with many draws between the sides. The shallow handicap and the rising odds on Brighton & Hove Albion are designed to mitigate the risks associated with Brighton & Hove Albion's inconsistent away form and to boost confidence in West Ham United's ability to earn points at home. Considering the motivation to avoid relegation and the shallow handicap, West Ham United is expected to avoid defeat at home. The recommended handicap direction is West Ham United +0.25.