Football Prediction | Ipswich Town vs Brighton & Hove Albion | English Premier League | Jan 17 – Will Ipswich Pull Off a Home Upset Against Brighton?

Premier League action heats up as Ipswich Town hosts Brighton & Hove Albion at Portman Road on Friday, January 17, 2025, at 01:30 AM (BDT) / 01:00 AM (IST). Ipswich, under the management of Kieran McKenna, aims to capitalize on their home advantage and secure valuable points to boost their league standing. On the other hand, Roberto De Zerbi’s Brighton will look to maintain their momentum and push for a higher spot in the league table.

Ipswich Town vs Brighton & Hove Albion Form Guide

Ipswich Town

Ipswich has showcased resilience this season, leveraging aerial duels and long-ball tactics effectively. Key players like Liam Delap and Leif Davis have been instrumental in their attacking setup, providing crucial goals and assists. However, Ipswich struggles with finishing chances, maintaining possession, and defending against skillful players.

Brighton & Hove Albion

Brighton, known for their attacking flair, excel in creating long-shot opportunities and capitalizing on set pieces. With Georginio Rutter leading their attack, Brighton remains a constant threat. However, their vulnerability to counter-attacks and defending against skillful players can create opportunities for Ipswich.

Ipswich Town vs Brighton & Hove Albion Key Battles

Liam Delap vs Carlos Baleba

Ipswich’s Liam Delap, the team’s top scorer with 8 goals, will challenge Brighton’s defense, led by Carlos Baleba, who has contributed 2 goals this season. Delap’s ability to capitalize on aerial duels could be decisive.

Leif Davis vs Georginio Rutter

In the midfield and flanks, Leif Davis (3 goals + assists) will look to outshine Brighton’s Georginio Rutter, who has been involved in 4 goal contributions, setting the stage for a crucial tactical battle.

Ipswich Town vs Brighton & Hove Albion Tactical Outlook

Ipswich is expected to rely on long balls and right-flank attacks, with an aggressive approach to disrupt Brighton’s rhythm. Their focus will be on exploiting aerial duels and creating chances through set-pieces.

Brighton will likely dominate possession and attack through the middle, attempting through balls to break Ipswich’s defense. Roberto De Zerbi’s side will aim to take advantage of direct free-kicks and set-piece opportunities to secure goals.

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Head-to-Head Encounters

In their previous encounters, Ipswich Town has secured 5 wins, Brighton & Hove Albion has won 4 times, and 4 matches ended in a draw. With Brighton favored by bookmakers (odds: Ipswich 4.10, Draw 3.80, Brighton 1.85), the Seagulls are expected to have the upper hand, but Ipswich’s home advantage could even the odds.

Injury News and Suspensions

Ipswich Town 

Ipswich Town faces several injury challenges as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures. Axel Tuanzebe and Omari Hutchinson are dealing with injuries that will keep them sidelined until early February 2025. Chiedozie Ogbene is out with an Achilles tendon injury and isn’t expected to return until early May 2025. Conor Chaplin is recovering from a knee injury, with a return anticipated in late January 2025. Meanwhile, Sammie Szmodics is doubtful due to a strain injury, adding uncertainty to their squad depth.

Brighton & Hove Albion 

Brighton & Hove Albion also has a growing injury list. Diego Gomez is regaining fitness and should be available by late January 2025, while Evan Ferguson (ankle) and Ferdi Kadioglu (toe) are out until early and mid-February, respectively. Igor’s thigh injury will sideline him until early March 2025. Additionally, Joao Pedro, James Milner, and Yankuba Minteh are doubtful for upcoming matches due to minor knocks. Manager Roberto De Zerbi faces a challenge in maintaining momentum with several key players potentially unavailable.

Ipswich Town vs Brighton & Hove Albion Possible Playing Squad

Ipswich Town

Walton (GK), Davis, Greaves, Woolfenden, O’Shea, Cajuste, Morsy, Broadhead, Burns, Clarke, Delap.

Brighton & Hove Albion

Verbruggen (GK), Estupiñán, Dunk, Hecke, Veltman, Ayari, Baleba, Adingra, Enciso, Minteh, Rutter.

Match Details at a Glance

Match Prediction

Ipswich will look to utilize their aerial strength and aggressive playstyle, but Brighton’s attacking capabilities and tactical discipline may prove challenging. Both teams have vulnerabilities that could lead to an evenly matched contest.

Score Prediction

Ipswich Town’s determination at home could see them hold their own against Brighton’s attacking quality. Both teams are likely to find the net in an open and competitive game. Final prediction: Ipswich Town 2-2 Brighton & Hove Albion in an entertaining draw.

Disclaimer: This Football prediction is based on the author’s insights and analysis. Readers should consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.