Olympiacos vs West Ham prediction, odds and preview

West Ham United go to Greece to face Olympiacos on Thursday evening, with a chance to advance to the Europa League knockout stages.

However, while the Hammers have the opportunity to go eight points clear of their next opponents, a loss would make the progression from Group A at least a three-horse race.

David Moyes has stated on numerous occasions this season that West Ham’s primary focus is the Premier League as they strive to finish in the top six.

A run of one win in five matches in the league means that the Hammers must push as hard as possible in Europe if they are to become regulars in the competition.

West Ham opened their European season in style, coming from behind to defeat Backa Topola and then beating Freiburg away in what was supposed to be a tricky game on paper.

Olympiacos’ only defeat in all competitions this season came at the hands of Freiburg, who defeated them 3-2 at the Karaiskakis Stadium.

Nonetheless, they lead the Greece top flight by two points with a game in hand, having collected 19 points out of a possible 21.

The match against Panathinaikos on Sunday was called off due to a firework striking an away player, and Olympiacos will be hoping to avoid further crowd problems on Thursday.

For the Ghanaian audience, the game will be an opportunity watch Mohammed Kudus once again after another substitute appearance in the league last Sunday.