WEST HAM UNITED continue their quest for Europa Conference League glory with a semi-final first leg against AZ Alkmaar at the London Stadium on Thursday night.
David Moyes' men made light work of KAA Gent in the previous round as they ran out 5-2 winners on aggregate, with my match preview of the second leg proving to be particularly profitable.
The Hammers' European form has been the only real shining light of their season so far, although they have shown signs of improvement domestically of late, most recently battling to a well-deserved 1-0 win over Manchester United.
That triumph has all but assured West Ham's top-flight status so they can now firmly put their eggs in the Europa Conference League basket.
Standing in their way of place in Prague's showpiece final is an AZ Alkmaar side who overcame Anderlecht via a penalty shootout to punch their ticket to the semi-final stage.
Last time out, Pascal Jansen's side earned a 0-0 draw at Eredivisie heavyweights Ajax so they certainly won't be fazed by the task in hand in London's east end on Thursday night.
Outright Betting
West Ham United boast a 100% home record in this season's Europa Conference League and the bookies' odds suggest that trend will continue, with a home win trading at 4/7 (PaddyPower).
Despite winning five of their last six Europe Conference League games, AZ arrive at the London Stadium as 5/1 (Betfred) underdogs while the draw is an unfancied 3/1 (Betfred).
Betting Angles
West Ham are too short to side with at the above-mentioned price but we can get some 4/5 (UniBet) on them to overcome a -0.75 hurdle on the Asian Handicap and that looks like a worthy boost in price.
This selection would deliver a full pay-out if the home team win by two goals or more, with a half-stakes winner banked if West Ham secure a victory by a one-goal margin.
As already mentioned, West Ham have done the majority of their best work whilst on continental duty this season and they certainly seem to have hit top gear at the right time in terms of their overall form.
The Hammers were roared to victory at home to Manchester United on Sunday and a similar London Stadium atmosphere can power them to a first leg lead this midweek.
While AZ have proven by eliminating the likes of Lazio and Anderlecht that they can't be underestimated at this level, they have endured a noticeable drop-off in the Dutch top-flight in recent weeks, having won just two of their last six league games.
With that in mind, coupled with the marked improvement in West Ham's performances of late, I'm happy to back the hosts at 4/5 (Bet 365) with a -0.75 start on the Asian Handicap.
Elsewhere, I'll also dip into the anytime goalscoer market where Lucas Paquetá looks worthy of interest to grab a goal at 3/1 with William Hill.
The Brazilian international is really starting to find his feet at West Ham and the 3/1 (William Hill) on the classy playmaker to notch here looks a lovely price.
This UEFA Europa League Conference match between West Ham United and AZ Alkmaar will be played on May 11, 2023 and kick off at 20:00. Check below for our tipsters best West Ham United vs AZ Alkmaar prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
