West Ham United and AFC Bournemouth meet for just the second time in League Cup history as an all-Premier League tie takes place in the Second Round at the London Stadium.
Bournemouth are still in search of their first win of the season following a controversial match against Newcastle United last weekend, where VAR decisions sparked heated debates. The Cherries are keen to bounce back and secure their place in the Third Round of the Carabao Cup.
Last season, Bournemouth made a commendable run to the Round of 16, where they narrowly lost to Liverpool 2-1, with Justin Kluivert scoring the only goal. This season, Bournemouth will look to build on that experience, hoping to go even further in the competition.
West Ham celebrated their first three points of the campaign with a solid 2-0 victory over Crystal Palace. The Hammers, who missed out on European qualification last season, are eager to make a strong cup run.
In this competition last season, Bournemouth got to the Round of 16, where they lost narrowly against Liverpool. West Ham also fell to defeat against Liverpool but did so a round later, losing 5-1 in the Quarter-Finals.
These previous encounters with one of England's top teams serve as a reminder of the quality and intensity required to progress in the tournament.
West Ham has been runners-up twice in this tournament, in the 1965/66 and 1980/81 seasons. Bournemouth's best runs have been to the Quarter-Finals three times.
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Team News
West Ham
Julen Lopetegui will be pleased to have Edson Álvarez at his disposal with the Mexican midfielder getting his first taste of action over the weekend, coming off the bench for a 12-minute cameo in West Ham's solid win.
Álvarez's introduction to the squad marks a significant addition to West Ham's midfield. His presence could be crucial in providing balance to a team that has shown both attacking flair and defensive solidity.
The Carabao Cup is a good place for West Ham to try out some fringe players. This competition has historically served as a platform for emerging talents and new signings to prove their worth.
Particularly, the new signings they have made, including Jean-Clair Todibo, Niclas Füllkrug, Crysencio Summerville, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, are all in line for their first competitive starts. This gives Lopetegui the chance to assess his new additions in a competitive setting.
So far, the side has lined up in a 4-1-4-1 formation in their two Premier League games. This set-up has allowed West Ham to maintain a strong defensive structure while supporting a fluid attack.
The flexibility of this formation might be key in this match. Lopetegui might look to maintain this formation to continue building team cohesion.
Bournemouth
Despite emerging from Sunday’s game against Newcastle without any new injuries, Spanish manager Andoni Iraola may still make changes to the squad. These changes could be influenced by potential player departures from the club.
The uncertainty surrounding the futures of key players could impact team selection and tactics. Jaidon Anthony, Phillip Billing, Daniel Jebbison and Max Aarons have all been linked with potential moves away from the club.
However, they may be boosted by the arrival of goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga. His loan move from Chelsea is understood to be edging closer.
If the deal is finalized in time, Kepa could bring much-needed experience and stability to Bournemouth’s defence. His potential debut in this match could also lift the team's morale.
Iraola, again in his press conference, spoke about illness within the camp but did not mention which players were suffering from this.
Bournemouth will still be without Tyler Adams, Enes Ünal and David Brooks due to injuries.
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Likely Lineups
West Ham: Fabianski; Wan-Bissaka, Kilman, Todibo, Emerson; Álvarez, Ward-Prowse, Souček; Summerville, Füllkrug, Kudus.
Bournemouth: Travers; Aarons, Zabarnyi, Huijsen, Smith; Cook, Christie, Scott; Sinisterra, Evanilson, Ouattara.
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Key Players
West Ham – Niclas Füllkrug
The 31-year-old Füllkrug joined West Ham this summer after a successful stint with Borussia Dortmund. Last season, he netted 12 goals in the Bundesliga, showcasing his striking prowess.
Füllkrug also made a significant impact in the Champions League. He contributed three crucial goals as Dortmund advanced to the final, where they faced Real Madrid.
Making his debut for Germany in 2022, he has gone on to earn 21 caps so far and has scored 13 goals. He was involved in the squad that went to the 2022 World Cup and most recently the UEFA Euro 2024 competition.
Füllkrug’s arrival at West Ham marks a significant boost for the Hammers' attacking options. He is known for his physical presence and clinical finishing.
Bournemouth - Dango Ouattara
Dango Ouattara has emerged as a dynamic super-sub for Bournemouth this season, consistently making a significant impact when called upon from the bench.
The 21-year-old from Burkina Faso has impressed with his ability to change the tempo of the game, using his blistering pace and skill on the wing to create chances and trouble opposing defences.
However, luck hasn’t been entirely on his side. In the first two games of the season, Ouattara found the back of the net twice, only to see both goals ruled out by marginal decisions.
Originally starting his career as a winger, Ouattara has also demonstrated impressive versatility, occasionally being deployed as a left-back.
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Match Details
Where is the game being played?
The match will take place at the London Stadium which is the home of West Ham.
What time is kick-off?
Kick-off is scheduled for 19:45 BST.
How can I watch?
All Carabao Cup games are available to watch live on Sky Sports for fans in the UK, with this tie's stream accessible on Sky Sports+.
