West Ham beat Olympiacos to top group and edge closer to last 16
Diego Martínez’s side came out on top in their last European fixture, defeating today’s hosts 2-1 to end West Ham’s English record 17-game unbeaten run in Europe (W16, D1). Looking to exact revenge, the Hammers were heavily reliant on James Ward-Prowse’s set-piece prowess to create chances in the first half.
Corner kicks appeared to be their best route to goal, with Nayef Aguerd connecting with three separate deliveries, but rarely troubling Alexandros Paschalakis. Lucas Paquetá was lively throughout the first period, while Benrahma twice came close from open play, yet at half-time, there was nothing to separate the two sides.
Every other UEL Group A fixture had seen both sides score, while West Ham had scored in 15 of 16 games heading into this, so the contest remaining goalless for another 45 minutes appeared unlikely.
Despite this, clear-cut chances weren’t forthcoming as the game ticked beyond the hour mark, with home fans becoming increasingly frustrated as Ward-Prowse sent an underwhelming shot into Paschalakis’ grateful arms.
Aside from a miscued half-volley from Daniel Podence in the first half, Olympiacos had offered precious little in attack, and they were firmly on the back foot as West Ham ramped up the pressure in search of a breakthrough.
Just as it was beginning to look like Olympiacos would draw for an eighth time in 10 European away games, Paquetá swept home a beautifully weighted pass from Ward-Prowse on the volley - a goal that was awarded by VAR after originally being flagged offside.
The UEFA Europa Conference League champions survived a late scare as Mady Camara headed onto the post, securing all three points to establish a five-point lead over Olympiacos in Group A.
Thrylos have now won just three of their last 20 trips to England (D1, L16) and look likely to be heading out of Europe’s second-tier competition thanks to Freiburg’s convincing win over TSC Bačka Topola.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Lucas Paquetá (West Ham United)
