With Brighton & Hove Albion ready to host Aston Villa at the Amex Stadium this evening at 20:45, fans can't wait for a match that could significantly affect the Premier League standings. Both sides are fighting for the top-four places in the league, thus the game is critical to both their aspirations. In this comprehensive preview, we will glance through head-to-head statistics, present form, probable lineups, and make an analysis of how the encounter could go.
Head-to-Head Statistics
Aston Villa have traditionally dominated this match. Before their last encounter, Villa had won five in a row against Brighton. Brighton broke the run with a 1-0 win in May 2024. Interestingly, Brighton have struggled in away fixtures against Villa, losing ten times and recording only three draws in their last 14 encounters, including a 6-1 thrashing last season.
Recent Form
Brighton & Hove Albion
Brighton have been having a tough time, not winning any of their previous six Premier League games. Their latest match ended in a 0-0 draw with Brentford, even though they had more possession and took 24 shots. This losing streak is their worst in nearly three years, so a change needs to happen.
Aston Villa
Aston Villa's form has been inconsistent. They lost 3-0 to Newcastle United on Boxing Day, a game marred by the controversial dismissal of Jhon Duran. Despite this loss, Villa have been strong domestically, losing just once in their last 14 home games at Villa Park. But their travels have not fared so well, with five consecutive Premier League away defeats.
Team News and Probable Lineups
Brighton & Hove Albion
Brighton have been plagued by multiple injury problems. Adam Lallana is out with a minor injury, joining the list of Pascal Gross, James Milner, Julio Enciso, and Jakub Moder. Evan Ferguson has overcome illness and is available to be picked. Ansu Fati, who was brought on as a halftime substitute to prevent the risk of injury, should be fit to start. Adam Webster is also expected to return and join captain Lewis Dunk in the center of defense.
Probable Starting XI:
- Goalkeeper: Steele
- Defenders: Lamptey, Webster, Dunk, Estupinan
- Midfielders: Gilmour, Dahoud
- Forwards: March, Fati, Mitoma
- Striker: Pedro
Aston Villa
Aston Villa will be without winger Leon Bailey, who suffered a thigh strain, and joins Emiliano Buendia and Tyrone Mings on the injury list.
Jacob Ramsey is also rated doubtful with a minor problem and will be assessed prior to kickoff. Alex Moreno is nearing a return from a hamstring problem and won't feature in this match. Emiliano Martinez, Boubacar Kamara, Nicolo Zaniolo, and Ollie Watkins are all expected to return to the starting lineup. Probable Starting XI: - Goalkeeper: Martinez
- Defenders: Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne
- Midfielders: Zaniolo, Kamara, Luiz, McGinn
- Forwards: Diaby, Watkins
Match Prediction
Based on the present form and team news, this game promises to be a tight encounter. Brighton's recent slide in form is contrary to the run of form of Aston Villa's home games. Villa's recent defeat and Brighton's need to snap their losing streak add some more dynamics to this game. On this basis, a draw seems a viable outcome, with both teams poised to score at the back.
Predicted Score: Aston Villa 1-1 Brighton & Hove Albion
Betting Tips
- Both Teams to Score: Both of Brighton's games have been high-scoring, and this makes for a good bet.
- Ollie Watkins to Score Anytime: Watkins has consistently been a threat in front of goal for Villa and should expect chances in this game.
How to Watch
Live, the game is to be telecast on multiple platforms. Followers are advised to check local listings to find coverage.
As these teams board the pitch tonight, followers can look forward to an intense game whereby both teams wish to gain significant points in trying to secure places in European football.