Freiburg take on the visitors West Ham in the first leg of UEFA Europa League 1/8-finals. The match will be played on Thursday, February 7th at Europa-Park Stadion (Freiburg).
Freiburg played in the same Europa League group as West Ham in the current season, and it was the English side that prevented the Germans from finishing first, defeating them twice in their encounters. In the other four matches, Christian Streich's team collected the maximum points. Finishing second in the group, Freiburg had to play in the round of 16 against French side Lens. After a goalless draw away, the Germans managed to win 3-2 at home. But it's unlikely that they will repeat this performance against the Hammers. In the German Bundesliga, Freiburg haven't won in six consecutive matches. Yes, the Brazilians from Breisgau haven't been spoiling their fans with victories lately...
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West Ham United also faced difficulties in the Premier League in January and the first half of February. But recently, the Hammers have improved, securing two consecutive victories: against Brentford (4-2) and Everton (3-1). In the group stage of the current Europa League, the Londoners secured five wins in six matches, including two against Freiburg with an aggregate score of 4-1. They comfortably won their group and advanced directly to the round of 16, while their opponents had to play in the round of 32. I'm not sure about the third consecutive victory for the English over the Germans, but at least securing a draw in Germany is well within the Hammers' capabilities.
The opponents have already met twice in the group stage of the tournament this season. On both occasions, the English celebrated victory: 2-0 at home and 2-1 in Germany. I consider the Hammers favorites even in the playoff match, even if it's away (what has changed in the past couple of months?). However, considering that both teams have not been performing well in their respective domestic leagues recently, I wouldn't rule out a draw in the first leg of their two-legged encounter. My prediction is X2; the visitors will at least avoid defeat.
Prediction for the match: West Ham not to lose (X2).
