Chris Sutton, renowned for his football analysis, has expressed his thoughts on the upcoming clash between West Ham and Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League quarter-finals.
In his prediction for the Daily Mail’s Match Day pullout page 11, he emphasized Bayer Leverkusen’s style of play under Xabi Alonso, suggesting it could potentially favor West Ham’s strategy.
Sutton noted Leverkusen’s expansive and entertaining football, emphasizing their tendency to control possession. Despite this, he maintained a skeptical outlook on West Ham’s European prospects, foreseeing Bayer Leverkusen emerging victorious.
The draw indeed presents a formidable challenge for West Ham. Leverkusen, currently leading the Bundesliga, ranks among the toughest opponents in the competition. The Hammers may have preferred to face them in later stages, but the fate has set up a stern test early on.
Former West Ham player Frank McAvennie, buoyed by their recent triumph over Freiburg, believes in the team’s ability to go far in the Europa League. However, overcoming Leverkusen will be no small feat.
David Moyes’ tactical approach, often characterized by a defensive mindset, could provide a tactical advantage against Leverkusen’s possession-based style.
The clash of strategies adds an intriguing dimension to the matchup. West Ham possesses key players like Lucas Paqueta, Jarrod Bowen, and Mohammed Kudus, known for their directness and pace, attributes well-suited for exploiting counter-attacking opportunities.
The two-legged tie promises an intense battle, with both sides seeking to exploit their strengths. While West Ham’s pace and counter-attacking prowess offer hope for an upset, Leverkusen’s quality and style of play make them formidable opponents.
The experience gained from their Conference League triumph last season adds to West Ham’s resilience, but they will need to showcase their best to overcome the German giants. As the stage is set for an enthralling encounter, fans await with bated breath to witness how the drama unfolds on the European stage.