Juric Ivan’s men are desperate for their first league victory since November, when they edged Everton 1-0 at St Mary’s Stadium. Meanwhile, Ipswich will be looking to secure a vital home win that could lift them out of the relegation zone. Kick Off Nigeria editor Ayomide Oguntimehin provides betting tips and predictions ahead of this crucial clash on the first day of February 2025.
Match Preview
Kieran McKenna’s men head into their first February fixture in a better position than their visitors, holding a 10-point advantage in the league standings. However, both teams remain in the relegation battle, and any further slip-ups could see Ipswich drop back into the second tier.
Ipswich’s defensive struggles have been evident, conceding 12 goals in their last three matches, including a humiliating 4-1 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield. Despite their poor form, Ipswich boast an unbeaten record in their last four meetings with Southampton, winning twice and drawing twice. Their most recent encounter saw them claim a 3-2 victory, but replicating that performance may be a challenge given their current struggles in the Premier League.
For Southampton, this season has been equally disappointing, with the Saints picking up just six points from 23 league matches. While they have managed to score in their last three outings, luck has not been on their side. However, against Ipswich’s shaky defence, they might fancy their chances of snatching a result on the road.
Head-to-Head (Last Five Matches)
- Premier League – Southampton 1-1 Ipswich
- Championship – Ipswich 3-2 Southampton
- Championship – Southampton 0-1 Ipswich
- FA Cup – Ipswich 0-1 Southampton
- FA Cup – Southampton 1-1 Ipswich
Ipswich Form
Ipswich have struggled in recent weeks, winning just once in their last five matches. They come into this fixture on the back of three consecutive league defeats, conceding 12 goals while scoring just once.
Their most recent loss was a 4-1 thrashing at the hands of Liverpool. Before that, they suffered a 6-0 humiliation at home to Manchester City and a 2-0 defeat against Brighton.
However, they did secure a 3-0 FA Cup victory over Bristol Rovers and managed a 2-2 draw at Fulham. With their defensive weaknesses exposed, they must tighten up to stand a chance against Southampton.
Southampton Form
Southampton are also enduring a poor run, having lost three consecutive Premier League matches. Their latest defeat came at home against Newcastle, where they fell 3-1. Before that, they lost 3-2 to Nottingham Forest and were beaten 3-1by Manchester United.
They did, however, claim a 3-0 FA Cup victory over Swansea, highlighting their attacking potential. Their biggest setback in recent weeks was a humiliating 5-0 home defeat to Brentford. With their defence conceding 14 goals in five matches, they need a massive improvement against Ipswich.
Player to Watch: Paul Onuachu (Southampton)
After an impressive cameo against Nottingham Forest, where he found the net, Paul Onuachu earned a starting role against Newcastle. Despite Southampton’s defeat, the Nigerian striker caused problems for the Magpies’ defence. Against Ipswich’s vulnerable backline, Onuachu will be a key attacking threat and one to watch in this fixture.
Related article: Paul Onuachu Shines in Turkey: What is the Nigerian’s Salary?
Best Odds and Betting Tips
- Both teams to score (Yes): 1.67 – 1xBet
