West Ham return to the London Stadium in second place after an impressive start to the Championship season. QPR are only two points behind them, however, and travel across London with one of the division’s strongest away records.

West Ham have found their rhythm

West Ham have taken thirteen points from their last five matches, winning four in a row before drawing 2–2 away against Millwall.

That run has lifted them to second place with fifteen points from eight matches. Their attack has been particularly impressive, scoring eleven goals across the previous five games.

Jarrod Bowen has remained central to their attacking play. He has scored four league goals and created more big chances than any other player in the Championship this season.

West Ham have also been strong at the London Stadium. They have scored fourteen goals at home while conceding only four, giving them one of the best home records in the division.

The 2–2 draw against Millwall ended their winning run, but it was another match in which West Ham created enough opportunities to score more than once. Returning home should give them a good chance to regain momentum.

QPR have performed well away from home

QPR have also made a positive start and sit sixth with thirteen points. They have scored nine goals across their last five matches, although three consecutive draws have slowed their progress.

Their most recent match ended 2–2 against Preston. QPR showed attacking quality again, but their failure to protect the lead continued a frustrating run of results.

The visitors have produced some of their best football away from home and currently have the third-best away record in the Championship. They should therefore arrive at the London Stadium with confidence.

Their squad is weakened by several absences. Ilias Chair, Richard Kone, Tariq Lamptey, Boy Kemper and Karamoko Dembélé are all expected to miss the match, while Dennis Cirkin is suspended.

Those absences remove several important attacking options and could make it difficult for QPR to maintain their threat throughout the match.

Recent meetings favour West Ham

West Ham are unbeaten in the last five meetings between the teams, recording three victories and two draws.

The most recent meeting came in January, when West Ham won 2–1. QPR made the match competitive, but West Ham’s greater quality eventually decided the result.

This fixture has generally been close, and QPR’s away record suggests another straightforward victory is unlikely. West Ham will need to remain patient and avoid giving the visitors opportunities on the counterattack.

The hosts should still control more of the possession and create the better chances. Their home form and stronger attacking options give them an advantage as the match develops.

Verdict

QPR have made a solid start and deserve respect after performing well away from home. Their recent run of draws and long injury list make this a difficult trip, however.

West Ham have won four of their last five matches, scored regularly at the London Stadium and remain unbeaten in the previous five meetings with QPR.

The visitors can make this competitive, but West Ham should have enough quality to take all three points. A 2–1 home victory looks like the most likely result.

Tip

West Ham to Win