The discussion surrounding the future of David Moyes has a new point of conversation. Those supporters who are in favor of Moyes leaving after this season now have something to think about. This comes after West Ham’s recent impressive performance, where Mohammed Kudus scored two spectacular solo goals to lead them into the quarter finals of European competition for the third year in a row.
Was it enjoyable? West Ham played exceptionally well as they easily defeated Freiburg, keeping their momentum going in the Europa League with a 5-1 aggregate win following an impressive comeback. Moyes should be recognized for his role in the victory, as he boldly put Kudus, Jarrod Bowen, and Lucas Paquetá on the field to wreak havoc on Freiburg’s defense.
A more aggressive formation would rectify the harm done by a tight 1-0 loss in the initial match. Michail Antonio, taking James Ward-Prowse’s place, provided a central focal point. Bowen, back in his usual position on the right, aggressively attacked Freiburg. Tomas Soucek and Edson Álvarez gave Paquetá, who has predominantly played on the left this season, the opportunity to control the game in the center.
Moyes expressed great satisfaction with the team’s accomplishments and performance. He was disappointed with the first game, but they were determined to correct it. West Ham has now reached the quarter-finals for three consecutive years, which is a remarkable feat and shows the progress the club has made.
West Ham began the game with a strong and forceful approach, with Bowen taking a quick shot that challenged Noah Atubolu. Just nine minutes into the match, Freiburg’s lead vanished. Cresswell sent a corner kick into the box, Soucek deflected it, and Paquetá scored by getting past Vincenzo Grifo.
The lack of accuracy in the scoring was disheartening for Freiburg, despite their attempt to quickly even the score with a shot by Roland Sallai. West Ham, who were stronger overall, continued to control the game. Antonio created an opportunity for Kudus, who missed, and the second goal was scored in the 32nd minute. Christian Günter fell to the ground while trying to stop Bowen with a foul, allowing Bowen to score his 18th goal of the season with a shot from 25 yards that flew into the net.
Rising for the first time in the match, Freiburg became more active. The atmosphere shifted, as Lukasz Fabianski prevented Grifo and Maximilian Eggestein from scoring before halftime.
The initial opportunities served as a reminder of Moyes’ preference for a defensive strategy. Freiburg was able to find gaps in West Ham’s defense too effortlessly at moments. The team used their experience to determine when to hold back and when to aggressively attack.
The fourth point they scored was a perfect example, with Kudus receiving the ball following a period of possession by Freiburg. From his position in the midfield, the winger charged through and confidently scored past Atubolu, elegantly evading the final defender.
Kudus, with his impressive strength and skill, is dominating the game in this fierce state. He effortlessly glides around the field, his smooth ball handling setting him apart, and his talent shows no limits. His second goal, a powerful left-footed strike from 20 yards out, sealed a 5-0 victory.
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After 52 minutes, West Ham gained stronger control as Cresswell capitalized on Bowen’s deflected cross and sent a threaded shot into the far corner. Cresswell, who had previously been red-carded twice during West Ham’s Europa League campaign two years ago, proved his veteran status in this goal.
After completing the task, Moyes substituted Paquetá, who had suffered an injury in the first half. The Brazilian midfielder from West Ham appeared upset while sitting on the sidelines.
Yet Paquetá is just back from a long-term calf injury and it made sense for Moyes to protect him. West Ham, whose win boosts England’s hopes of beating Germany to an extra Champions League spot, will need Paquetá’s creativity if their season is to end on a high.
Source: theguardian.com
