While we all eagerly await the start of the new season in England, the truth remains that the Asian trophy is proving to be quite the entertainment. With other smaller tournaments such as the ICC also being held during the preseason games, this could be a good chance for the players to get competitive while also being in a relaxed mood. While Manchester City is set to battle it with Wolves for the title of the Premier League Asian trophy, Newcastle and West Ham would have to prove their worth over 3rd place. This match is set to be played at the Hongkou Stadium and there can be no doubt that most of the players will be looking forward to it.
Newcastle
Newcastle has had some radical shakeups this season. With their coach Rafa Benitez leaving during the preseason, they had to make a lot of adjustments in such a short period. With this in mind, they would probably see this preseason as one of the best opportunities for them to gel before the season kicks off. With the season starting on the 9th of August, there is not a lot of time left to practice and achieve the very best. West Ham would be also be hoping to get a positive result in this game.
West Ham
West Ham has had a good time recently. However, the stunning loss to the champions in the last round is enough to drop the high confidence which they had before the game. Having lost heavily to the champions, they would be out to strategize and figure out a way to achieve their prospects in this cup and this season. A win against Newcastle or at least a great performance would surely please the players and their fans. That, therefore, would surely be their ultimate goal at the end of the day. Another aspect of their game which would be crucial is the current form they are in.
As earlier stated, West Ham had been in incredible form. They have won four games from the last six and look every inch of it. With the loss against Manchester City, some of the swaggers which they would have had would be gone. It would be time for that struggle to begin once more. However, a win at the end of the day would be the best reward for them. Also seeing that Newcastle form is not so much better than theirs would offer some form of relief.
Newcastle has won only three games making them have a near-identical form with their opponents. Also, their last match against Wolves ended in heavy defeat making them in the same position as West Ham. This match could prove to be a redemption of one of these teams and further misery for the other. Newcastle would surely want to ensure that they are the ones rejoicing at the end of the day. It remains to be seen if their wish would be granted when the game starts.
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