West Bromwich vs Bolton Predictions

West Bromwich vs Bolton predictions, betting tips and match previews for this pre-season friendly affair. Championship side West Bromwich Albion face League One’s Bolton Wanderers in a friendly at St George’s Park on Saturday afternoon. Read on for our free predictions and betting tips.

Club Friendlies | Jul 12, 2024 at 2pm UK at St George’s Park

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West Bromwich vs Bolton Predictions

Can West Brom Dominate Bolton in Their Pre-Season Opener?

West Bromwich Albion and Bolton Wanderers square off in a pre-season friendly at St George’s Park as both teams gear up for the 2024-25 campaign. This match marks the first of pre-season for both clubs and serves as a crucial warm-up for their respective league seasons.

West Brom’s Championship Ambitions

West Bromwich Albion are preparing for another season in the Championship after finishing fifth last term and suffering a disappointing playoff semi-final defeat to Southampton. Head coach Carlos Corberan has emphasized the need for significant improvement during the summer to ensure they are well-prepared to challenge for promotion. Despite the financial constraints under new EFL rules and an £11 million loss recorded for the 2022-23 season, the Baggies remain focused on their goal.

American businessman Shilen Patel’s takeover as the new majority shareholder provides a glimmer of hope for the club’s future, yet they must operate within a tight budget. Corberan’s squad has undergone changes, with senior figures such as Matt Phillips, Adam Reach, and Nathaniel Chalobah departing, while new signings Joe Wildsmith, Ousmane Diakite, and Torbjorn Heggem have arrived to bolster the team. This friendly against Bolton will be a crucial test of their preparations.

Bolton’s Playoff Heartache and Rebuilding

Bolton Wanderers experienced similar playoff disappointment, missing out on promotion to the Championship after finishing third in League One. Their defeat to Oxford United in the playoff final was a bitter end to a season where they accumulated 87 points from 46 matches. Manager Ian Evatt has reflected on the past season, acknowledging the need for improvement and commending his players’ progress during a week-long training camp in Portugal.

Evatt, who has managed nearly 230 games for Bolton, aims to build on the positives from last season and prepare his team for another push for promotion. Key departures include veteran striker Cameron Jerome and Jon Dadi Bodvarsson, while new signings Chris Forino, Klaidi Lolos, and Luke Southwood are expected to make an impact. Their pre-season schedule includes six friendly matches, starting with West Brom, followed by encounters with Middlesbrough, Chorley, Fiorentina, Stoke City, and Port Vale.

Expected Line-Ups and Tactical Insights

West Bromwich Albion: Wildsmith; Furlong, Kipré, Bartley, Townsend; Yokuşlu, Mowatt; Swift, Diangana, Wallace; Thomas-Asante

West Brom’s likely lineup reflects a mix of experience and new additions. The defensive solidity provided by Kipré and Bartley will be crucial, while the midfield pairing of Yokuşlu and Mowatt will aim to control the game. The attacking trio of Swift, Diangana, and Wallace will support Thomas-Asante, who will be the focal point in attack.

Bolton Wanderers: Southwood; Dacres-Cogley, Toal, Santos, Iredale; Maghoma, Sheehan; Williams, Thomason, Ogbeta; Charles

Bolton’s expected lineup features a blend of seasoned players and fresh faces. The defensive stability from Santos and Toal will be key, while the midfielders Maghoma and Sheehan will look to dominate possession. Upfront, Charles will be the main goal threat, supported by the creative talents of Williams and Ogbeta.

Key Areas and Player Duels

The midfield battle will be pivotal in determining the outcome of the match. West Brom’s Yokuşlu and Mowatt against Bolton’s Maghoma and Sheehan will be a crucial duel. Control in this area will allow either team to dictate the tempo and create scoring opportunities. Additionally, the attacking flair of West Brom’s Diangana against Bolton’s solid full-back Dacres-Cogley promises to be an intriguing matchup.

Gameplay Dynamics

West Brom are expected to adopt a possession-based approach, utilizing their midfield to build attacks and create chances for their forwards. Their high pressing style will aim to disrupt Bolton’s build-up play and force errors. On the other hand, Bolton are likely to employ a more counter-attacking strategy, using the pace and creativity of their wingers to exploit any gaps in West Brom’s defence.

Tactical Strengths and Weaknesses

West Bromwich Albion: West Brom’s strength lies in their ability to control possession and create chances through patient build-up play. Players like Swift and Wallace provide creativity, while Thomas-Asante is a potent goal-scoring threat. However, their defensive vulnerabilities, particularly when pressed high, can be exploited by quick counter-attacks.

Bolton Wanderers: Bolton’s primary strength is their solid defensive organisation and ability to hit teams on the break. The midfield duo of Maghoma and Sheehan can control the game and provide a platform for their attackers. Nonetheless, their reliance on counter-attacks can leave them susceptible if West Brom manage to dominate possession and press effectively.

Managerial Critique

Carlos Corberan, in his second season in charge of West Brom, has shown promise but faces significant pressure to deliver promotion. His tactical acumen will be tested as he integrates new signings and aims to improve consistency. Conversely, Ian Evatt, with his long tenure at Bolton, brings experience but his team’s playoff performance raises questions about their mentality in crucial matches. His ability to adapt tactically will be crucial for Bolton’s success.

Expected Goals Analysis

West Brom’s average of 1.5 goals per game in the Championship highlights their attacking capabilities, but also indicates a need for more clinical finishing. Bolton’s 1.9 goals per game in League One showcases their offensive strength, though their defensive solidity with just 1.1 goals conceded per game suggests a well-balanced team.

Predictions

Best Bet: West Brom to Win Given West Brom’s superior squad quality and tactical setup, they are favourites to win this match. Their ability to control possession and create chances should see them come out on top against a Bolton side that may struggle to contain their offensive threat.

Correct Score: West Bromwich Albion 2-0 Bolton Wanderers While Bolton are expected to put up a strong fight, West Brom’s superior quality and depth give them the edge. A 2-0 scoreline reflects West Brom’s ability to dominate the game and keep a clean sheet against their lower league opponents.

Goalscorer Prediction: Brandon Thomas-Asante to Score Thomas-Asante, with his goal-scoring record, is a prime candidate to find the net for West Brom. His physical presence and finishing skills make him a constant threat in the box.

Corner Prediction: West Brom to Win More Corners West Brom’s attacking style and tendency to dominate possession suggest they will win more corners. Bolton’s defensive setup under pressure might concede several corners, with West Brom exploiting these set-piece opportunities.

Innovative Market: Total Team Shots on Target – West Brom Over 5.5 West Brom’s attacking setup and the presence of creative players like Swift and Wallace indicate they will frequently test the Bolton goalkeeper. Predicting over 5.5 shots on target for West Brom reflects their offensive potential and game strategy.

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