Hull vs West Bromwich Albion Prediction, Match Preview, 20 December

Hull City are set to face West Bromwich Albion in an intriguing Championship clash on Saturday, 20 December. The match will take place at the MKM Stadium, where Hull City will be looking to make the most of their home advantage. This fixture is significant as both teams are competing for crucial points to strengthen their positions in the league table. With the Championship being highly competitive, every match is vital, and this encounter promises to be no different.

West Bromwich Albion, renowned for their resilient performances, will aim to challenge Hull City on their own turf. Hull, meanwhile, will be eager to demonstrate their strength and secure a victory in front of their supporters. Both teams have shown flashes of quality this season, making this match a must-watch for fans and punters alike. The outcome could have lasting implications as the season unfolds, adding extra significance to this Championship showdown.

Hull vs West Bromwich Albion Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
West Bromwich Albion to Win	2.44

Based on current form and team dynamics, our recommended betting tip is to back West Bromwich Albion to win. The odds of 2.44 represent good value, especially considering West Brom’s recent away victory and their historical advantage over Hull.

• Hull’s key absentees in midfield and attack severely limit their creative and scoring potential.
• West Bromwich Albion have a strong head-to-head record against Hull, including three wins in their last five meetings.
• Hull’s defensive vulnerabilities, conceding an average of 1.7 goals per match, play into West Brom’s hands, who possess a potent attacking threat.

Betting Odds

Hull City are set to host West Bromwich Albion in what promises to be a fascinating Championship encounter. The betting odds indicate a closely contested match, with West Bromwich Albion slightly favoured at 2.46, while Hull are priced at 2.76. A draw, which could tempt some punters, is available at odds of 3.32.

Betting Tip	Odds
Hull to win	2.76
Draw	3.32
West Brom to win	2.46

Given the competitive nature of both teams, the markets for both teams to score and over 2.5 goals could offer intriguing betting opportunities. Keep an eye on Hull’s home form and West Bromwich Albion’s away resilience when placing your bets.

Hull City Analysis & Past Performance

Hull City’s recent form has been somewhat inconsistent, with three wins and two losses in their last five matches. They recorded victories over Millwall (3-1) and Wrexham (2-0), demonstrating their goal-scoring potential, but also suffered a heavy defeat to Middlesbrough (1-4) and a loss to Ipswich (0-2), highlighting some defensive weaknesses.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Millwall	Hull	1 – 3 (Win)	Championship	13 Dec 2025
Hull	Wrexham	2 – 0 (Win)	Championship	10 Dec 2025
Hull	Middlesbrough	1 – 4 (Loss)	Championship	5 Dec 2025
Stoke	Hull	1 – 2 (Win)	Championship	29 Nov 2025
Hull	Ipswich	0 – 2 (Loss)	Championship	25 Nov 2025

Recent Form:
Hull have averaged 1.60 goals per game in their last five matches, matching their goals conceded average of 1.60. This suggests a balanced but vulnerable side, with only one clean sheet during this period. Their ability to score in four out of five recent games is a positive, but defensive improvements are needed, as their clean sheet ratio stands at just 20%.

Hull’s home performances have been slightly stronger, with a win ratio of 0.40 in their last five games. They currently sit sixth in the league table with 34 points, reflecting a competitive side capable of challenging higher up. Joe Gelhardt remains a key player, having contributed significantly to their attack with 10 goals this season. His performance will be crucial in upcoming fixtures.

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Hull City Suspensions & Injuries

Hull City are facing a challenging situation with several key players unavailable due to injuries and suspensions. The absence of Semi Ajayi, who is serving a suspension due to international duty, will require a reshuffle in the defensive line. Without Ajayi, Hull’s defensive solidity could be compromised, potentially forcing manager Sergej Jakirovic to rely on less experienced players.

Player	Suspension	Matches Remaining	Expected Return
Semi Ajayi	International Duty	1	Unknown

The injury list is also concerning, with notable absentees including Kasey Palmer and Nathan Tinsdale, both expected to return in late December 2025. Brandon Williams and Joe Gelhardt are also doubtful, reducing options in midfield and attack. Eliot Matazo’s cruciate ligament injury rules him out until mid-January 2026, further depleting the squad. These injuries may prompt Jakirovic to consider tactical adjustments, possibly turning to youth or fringe players to step up.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Eliot Matazo	Cruciate ligament injury	Mid January 2026
Nathan Tinsdale	Knee injury	Late December 2025
Kasey Palmer	Medial Collateral Ligament injury	Late December 2025
Brandon Williams	Calf injury	Late December 2025
Joe Gelhardt	Calf injury	Doubtful
John Lundstram	Knee injury	Late January 2026
Enis Destan	Leg injury	Early January 2026

These absences could affect Hull City’s chances against West Bromwich Albion, particularly in maintaining a balanced and competitive squad. The betting markets may reflect this uncertainty, potentially favouring West Bromwich Albion due to Hull’s weakened line-up. The tactical impact of missing key players will require Hull to adapt quickly, making the most of their available squad depth.

Hull City Key Players

Joe Gelhardt stands out as Hull City’s top scorer, having netted 10 goals so far this season. His consistent goal-scoring ability makes him a crucial asset in Hull’s attacking line-up, providing a clinical edge in front of goal. Gelhardt’s movement off the ball and sharp instincts in the box pose a constant threat to opposing defences. Although he is currently doubtful, his presence on the pitch could significantly influence Hull’s attacking dynamics.

In midfield, Amir Hadžiahmetović plays a key role with his ability to control the tempo and distribute the ball effectively. Alongside him, Regan Slater and Matt Crooks offer both defensive stability and creative options, making them integral to Hull’s tactical approach. Defensively, John Egan’s leadership and aerial prowess are vital for maintaining Hull’s backline solidity, especially against West Bromwich Albion’s forwards.

Expected line-up for Hull City:

• Goalkeeper: Ivor Pandur
• Defenders: Lewie Coyle, John Egan, Charlie Hughes, Ryan Giles
• Midfielders: Amir Hadžiahmetović, Regan Slater, Matt Crooks
• Forwards: Mohamed Belloumi, Kyle Joseph, Liam Millar

Hull City Tactics and Formation

Hull City Tactical Breakdown:

• Recent Formation: 4-5-1
• Key Forward: Kyle Joseph
• Midfield Dynamics: Regan Slater and Amir Hadžiahmetović
• Defensive Setup: Reliant on Semi Ajayi and Charlie Hughes
• Recent Performance: Scored in 4 of their last 5 matches, but only one clean sheet.

Hull City have recently favoured a 4-5-1 formation, aiming to dominate the midfield and provide a solid defensive line. The midfield, led by Regan Slater and Amir Hadžiahmetović, is pivotal in both defensive coverage and transitioning play forward, supporting lone striker Kyle Joseph.

Defensively, Hull rely on the experience of Semi Ajayi and the youthful presence of Charlie Hughes at centre-back. This pairing is crucial for maintaining defensive stability, although they have only managed one clean sheet in their last five outings, indicating room for improvement.

Offensively, Hull’s approach depends on their midfield’s creativity, with Mohamed Belloumi and Matt Crooks providing width and support. Despite recent defensive struggles, Hull’s ability to score in four of their last five matches highlights their attacking potential.

West Bromwich Albion Analysis & Past Performance

West Bromwich Albion’s recent form has been mixed, with two wins, two losses, and one draw in their last five fixtures. Their most recent outing resulted in a commanding 2-0 victory over Sheffield United at home, underlining their ability to perform under pressure.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
West Bromwich	Sheffield United	2 – 0 (Win)	Championship	12 Dec 2025
Southampton	West Bromwich	3 – 2 (Loss)	Championship	9 Dec 2025
Queens Park Rangers	West Bromwich	3 – 1 (Loss)	Championship	6 Dec 2025
West Bromwich	Swansea	3 – 2 (Win)	Championship	29 Nov 2025
West Bromwich	Birmingham	1 – 1 (Draw)	Championship	26 Nov 2025

Recent Form:

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In their last five matches, West Bromwich Albion have averaged 1.80 goals per game while conceding the same amount. They have managed just one clean sheet during this period, highlighting some defensive vulnerabilities. Despite scoring in all of their recent games, their away form is a concern, having lost all five of their recent away fixtures. Their overall win ratio stands at 40%, but this drops to 0% away from home, indicating a clear contrast in performance depending on the venue.

West Bromwich Albion Suspensions & Injuries

West Bromwich Albion are currently dealing with several injuries that could affect their tactical setup against Hull City. Notably, Jed Wallace, who is sidelined with a calf injury, is a significant miss due to his creative influence in midfield. His expected return in late December is a positive, but his absence leaves a gap that could be difficult to fill. Alex Mowatt, struggling with a foot injury and listed as doubtful, further complicates midfield options. These injuries may force Ryan Mason to rely more on the likes of Jayson Molumby and Isaac Price to provide stability and creativity in the centre of the park.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Alex Williams	Broken ankle	Mid January 2026
Jed Wallace	Calf injury	Late December 2025
Toby Collyer	Muscle injury	Mid January 2026
Alex Mowatt	Foot injury	Doubtful

In defence, Toby Collyer’s muscle injury and Alex Williams’ broken ankle mean West Bromwich Albion will need to rely on their current backline, with Krystian Bielik and Nathaniel Phillips likely to maintain their positions. The absence of these players could test the defensive depth, particularly if the match requires fresh legs or tactical adjustments.

These injuries could impact West Bromwich Albion’s ability to maintain a high-tempo game, potentially influencing the match outcome and betting markets. With key players unavailable, West Bromwich Albion might adopt a more conservative approach, focusing on defensive solidity and counter-attacks to exploit any lapses from Hull City.

West Bromwich Albion Key Players

West Bromwich Albion will rely heavily on their top scorer, Aune Selland Heggebø, who has netted 8 goals this season. Heggebø’s sharp finishing and intelligent positioning make him a constant threat in the attacking third, and he will be crucial in breaking down Hull City’s defence. His ability to find space and link up with fellow forwards Mikey Johnston and Karlan Grant could prove decisive.

In midfield, Jayson Molumby and Isaac Price are expected to play pivotal roles. Molumby’s box-to-box dynamism, combined with Price’s composure on the ball, will be essential in controlling the tempo and transitioning play from defence to attack. Defensively, Nathaniel Phillips and Krystian Bielik form a solid partnership at the back, with Phillips’ aerial dominance and Bielik’s tactical awareness providing a robust foundation.

Expected line-up for West Bromwich Albion:

• Goalkeeper: Joe Wildsmith
• Defence: George Campbell, Nathaniel Phillips, Krystian Bielik, Callum Styles
• Midfield: Ousmane Diakité, Jayson Molumby, Isaac Price
• Forward: Mikey Johnston, Karlan Grant, Aune Selland Heggebø

Overall, these key players not only shape West Bromwich Albion’s tactical approach but also highlight their strengths in attack and defence. Heggebø’s scoring prowess, combined with the midfield’s energy and defensive solidity, positions West Bromwich Albion as formidable opponents. Their strategic interplay will be crucial in overcoming Hull City and securing a positive result.

West Bromwich Albion Tactics and Formation

West Bromwich Albion Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-5-1
• Key Forward: Aune Selland Heggebø
• Midfield Pivot: Jayson Molumby and Ousmane Diakité
• Defensive Strength: One clean sheet in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on midfield control and structured defence.

West Bromwich Albion, under Ryan Mason, have recently favoured a 4-5-1 formation. This system allows them to strengthen the midfield, with Jayson Molumby and Ousmane Diakité playing pivotal roles in both defensive coverage and transitioning to attack. The presence of Mikey Johnston and Isaac Price in midfield adds creativity and width, supporting the lone striker Aune Selland Heggebø.

Defensively, the backline of George Campbell, Nathaniel Phillips, Krystian Bielik, and Callum Styles offers a blend of youth and experience. Despite securing just one clean sheet in their last five outings, this defensive setup aims to limit opposition chances through structured positioning and collective pressing.

In attack, West Bromwich Albion rely on quick transitions and exploiting spaces left by opponents. Aune Selland Heggebø, the team’s top scorer, is vital in converting chances, supported by wingers who provide width and pace. However, their away form remains a concern, with no wins in their last five away games, indicating the need for tactical improvements on the road.

Hull City vs West Bromwich Albion Head-to-Head Record

Hull City and West Bromwich Albion have faced each other 25 times, with West Bromwich Albion holding a significant advantage in the head-to-head record. They have won 14 matches compared to Hull City’s 5, with 6 games ending in a draw. The last meeting in March 2025 finished 1-1 at West Bromwich Albion’s ground, showing Hull City’s ability to secure a point away from home.

The last time Hull City hosted West Bromwich Albion at the MKM Stadium was in November 2024, where they narrowly lost 1-2. Hull City will be aiming to improve their home form against a side that has often been a difficult opponent.

Home Team	Away Team	Score	League	Date
West Bromwich Albion	Hull City	1 – 1	Championship	2025-03-15
Hull City	West Bromwich Albion	1 – 2	Championship	2024-11-10
Hull City	West Bromwich Albion	1 – 1	Championship	2024-02-24
West Bromwich Albion	Hull City	3 – 1	Championship	2023-11-04
Hull City	West Bromwich Albion	2 – 0	Championship	2023-03-03