Southampton
West Ham United
Southampton vs West Ham United Prediction & Betting Tips – 25/08/2026
St. Mary's Stadium plays host to a fascinating Carabao Cup second-round tie on 25 August as Southampton welcome West Ham United in a clash between two sides now plying their trade in the Championship. Both clubs navigated the opening round comfortably, and this fixture offers a welcome distraction from the early-season league demands. A fiery rivalry has developed between these two over the years, and with West Ham's recent relegation from the Premier League adding an extra edge, neither side will treat this cup encounter lightly.
Match Analysis
West Ham United enter this Carabao Cup second-round tie as the marginal favourites at 2.38, backed by a dominant H2H record and a convincing 3-1 first-round win over Portsmouth that showcased genuine attacking threat even in a rotated lineup.
- 12 H2H wins against Southampton's 7 across all competitions, including back-to-back unbeaten results.
- 3-1 victory over Portsmouth in round one, with Castellanos (brace) and Bowen on the scoresheet.
- Back-to-back unbeaten meetings: a 1-0 win at St. Mary's in December 2024 and a 1-1 draw in April 2025.
- Squad depth confirmed: Nuno comfortably deployed fringe players Orford, Kanté, and Scarles in round one without losing control.
Southampton face this tie at 2.62 hampered by a seven-player injury list including Smallbone, Sulemana, Azaz, Bazunu, and Stephens, severely restricting Eckert's options even as he plans to rotate for the cup.
- Seven first-team players sidelined, including goalkeeper Bazunu and key midfielders Smallbone and Azaz.
- Championship level opposition in West Ham, who hold a statistically superior squad depth and recent H2H edge.
- Rotation-heavy selection expected from Eckert, meaning limited top-quality cover for absent starters.
Key point: With both sides rotating heavily and defences untested, the draw at 3.40 offers value as a genuine third outcome in an evenly contested cup tie.
Form & Statistics: Southampton vs West Ham United
Southampton
Recent form
Season statistics (3)
West Ham United
Recent form
Season statistics (5)
Southampton vs West Ham United: Head-to-Head
Average statistics (recent meetings)
Our Verdict
West Ham's superior head-to-head record, with 12 wins to Southampton's seven across all competitions, tilts the balance firmly in the visitors' favour. The Hammers won the most recent meeting at St. Mary's 1-0, and their first-round demolition of Portsmouth demonstrated genuine attacking potency. Southampton's loss to Watford last time out raises questions about confidence levels. The draw or away double chance represents the strongest value pick here, supported by the away win price at 2.38. For goals, both teams to score at N/A appeals given recent scoring patterns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bet for Southampton vs West Ham United?
The draw or away double chance favours West Ham United, reflected in the away price at 2.38. The visitors hold a superior head-to-head record and arrive on the back of a convincing 3-1 cup win over Portsmouth. With both sides rotating, the match remains open, but West Ham's greater quality in depth gives them the edge at St. Mary's.
What time does Southampton vs West Ham United kick off?
The match kicks off on 25th August 2026, with the fixture scheduled during the week commencing 24th August. It will be played at St. Mary's Stadium in Southampton. As a Carabao Cup second-round tie, the precise local kickoff time is subject to confirmation by the competition organisers, so supporters are advised to check official club channels.
Where can I watch Southampton vs West Ham United on TV?
Broadcast arrangements for Carabao Cup second-round fixtures are typically confirmed closer to the match date. In recent seasons, ties have been shared across Sky Sports and TNT Sports in the United Kingdom. Supporters are encouraged to consult official broadcaster schedules and both clubs' websites for the most up-to-date television coverage information for this fixture.
What is Southampton's recent record against West Ham United?
The recent head-to-head record leans firmly in West Ham United's favour. Most recently, West Ham claimed a 1-0 victory at St. Mary's in December 2024, followed by a 1-1 draw in April 2025. Across all competitions, West Ham have recorded 12 wins compared to Southampton's 7, underlining the visitors' historical dominance in this rivalry.