Europa League: Michael Owen predicts result of West Ham v Lyon
Michael Owen says home advantage will be the difference for West Ham as they face Lyon in the Europa League quarter-final first leg on Thursday.
David Moyes’ side did exceptionally well to reach the last eight after beating Sevilla in the previous round.
The Hammers are heading into this game with full confidence after beating Everton 2-1 on Sunday in the Premier League.
It promises to be a feisty clash, and Owen told Bet Victor that he expects the Hammers to secure a 1-0 win.
“This will be a great occasion for West Ham,” said Owen.
“The atmosphere and performance in the second leg against Sevilla was brilliant, and they’ll be looking for the same here
“Lyon are a good side though; this won’t be easy. I’m leaning towards West Ham though; I think home advantage will the difference. 1-0!”
Huge game
Lyon are struggling in the French league this season, sitting ninth in the league table.
The French side are heading into this game on the back of a 3-2 win against Angers, and they are capable of causing an upset.
The Hammers received a massive boost over the weekend by the timely return of Jarrod Bowen who scored against the Toffees after returning from a long injury lay-off.
However, Moyes will have to make a late call on whether to include Ben Johnson in the starting line-up for the game.
Johnson missed the clash over the weekend with a hamstring injury he sustained on international duty.
Vladimir Coufal was on the bench against Everton, and Moyes could bring him into the first team in case Johnson fails to recover in time. Ryan Fredericks is another option for the Hammers.
The first leg at home poses a different challenge. The Hammers must score and take a sizeable lead, while they have to make sure they remain tight at the back.
Michail Antonio looked sharp against the Toffees and he will be looking to get his name on the scoresheet on Thursday.
In other West Ham news, John Terry tells West Ham how they can keep Declan Rice.
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