Having previously struggled in their last six home matches against English squads in top-tier European competitions (D2 L4) since triumphing over Manchester United 2-0 in February 2014, Olympiakos managed to turn the tables.
West Ham United, fresh off a promising start in the Europa League, found themselves bested by Olympiakos in a narrow defeat. Kostas Fortounis darted past West Ham’s defense to send a scorching 25-yard goal into the net, setting the pace for the match.
Angelo Ogbonna inadvertently added insult to injury, netting an own goal just before halftime, deflating West Ham’s spirits further. Lucas Paqueta tried to ignite a comeback with an 87th-minute wonder-strike, but it proved too little, too late as the Hammers were left empty-handed.
Despite the loss, David Moyes’ crew maintains their lead in Group A.
Olympiakos came out of the gates roaring, as an early attempt by Sotiris Alexandropoulos compelled goalkeeper Alphonse Areola to make a crucial low save. Though lacking a win in their last 11 Europa League matches, the longest such streak in their European history, they exhibited no shortage of self-assurance against the Hammers.
West Ham might have had the majority of ball possession but displayed a muddled performance. Said Benrahma’s shot ricocheted off the side-netting early on, James Ward-Prowse missed a free-kick by a whisker, and Danny Ings’ header disappointingly found the roof of the net.
West Ham’s record-breaking 17-match European unbeaten streak came to an unceremonious halt in Greece. The team underwent seven changes from their 4-1 loss against Aston Villa, and Moyes, defending his lineup choices, stated, “We had enough quality on the field to win, or at least perform well. Many of the players have been solid for us over the years.”
Fueled by an electrifying home crowd, Olympiakos showcased their intent right from the start, forcing two corners in the early minutes. Lackluster defending allowed Fortounis to seize his moment, and he executed a flawless shot from just outside the box. Ogbonna’s misstep, deflecting a cross from Rodinei into his own net, doubled the trouble for West Ham, who conceded both goals in the final 15 minutes of the first half.
Lucas Paqueta managed to reduce the deficit with a world-class volley, capitalizing on a half-clearance from a Michail Antonio cross, but his late heroics couldn’t salvage a point for West Ham.
Despite this being only their second loss in nine group stage matches, the Hammers will aim to regain their mojo when they face Olympiakos again on November 9.
Player of the Match: Gustavo Scarpa
With an average rating of 6.96, Gustavo Scarpa outshined his peers in Olympiakos, followed closely by Daniel Podence and Kostas Fortounis, who scored averages of 6.66 and 6.58 respectively.
Match Stats Snapshot
Olympiakos vs. West Ham United
- Possession: Olympiakos 43% – 57% West Ham
- Shots: Olympiakos 15 – 12 West Ham
- Shots on Target: Olympiakos 5 – 3 West Ham
- Corners: Olympiakos 3 – 7 West Ham
- Fouls: Olympiakos 6 – 15 West Ham
What are your thoughts on West Ham’s performance? Hit us up with your opinions! Keep up with the latest in European action as Olympiakos and West Ham gear up for their next matches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Europa League
Who scored the opening goal for Olympiakos against West Ham?
Kostas Fortounis was the man who opened the scoring, darting past West Ham’s defense and sending a 25-yard scorcher into the net.
What led to West Ham’s second conceded goal?
Angelo Ogbonna inadvertently scored an own goal just before halftime, which contributed to West Ham’s defeat.
Did West Ham maintain their position in Group A despite the loss?
Yes, despite the loss to Olympiakos, West Ham United still hold the top position in Group A of the Europa League.
How did Lucas Paqueta’s late goal affect the match?
Lucas Paqueta scored a brilliant volley in the 87th minute, but it was too late to change the outcome. West Ham couldn’t salvage a point and ended up losing 2-1.
What was the match’s impact on West Ham’s unbeaten European streak?
The defeat to Olympiakos ended West Ham’s 17-match unbeaten run in European competition.
Who was named the Player of the Match?
Gustavo Scarpa was named the Player of the Match with an average rating of 6.96.
What were the key stats of the match?
Olympiakos had 43% possession compared to West Ham’s 57%. Olympiakos took 15 shots, 5 of which were on target. West Ham took 12 shots, 3 on target. Olympiakos had 3 corners, and West Ham had 7. Olympiakos committed 6 fouls, while West Ham committed 15.
Was this West Ham’s first loss in the Europa League group stages this season?
Yes, this was West Ham’s first defeat in the current Europa League season, although it was only their second group-stage loss in nine such matches.
What changes did David Moyes make to the West Ham line-up?
David Moyes made seven changes from the team that lost 4-1 against Aston Villa. Despite the changes, he felt the team he fielded was capable of winning or at least performing well.
When is the rematch between Olympiakos and West Ham?
The two teams will face each other again on November 9, where West Ham will look to bounce back and secure a win.
More about Europa League
- West Ham United Official Site
- UEFA Europa League Homepage
- Olympiakos Official Website
- David Moyes’ Post-Match Comments
- Europa League Group A Standings
- Match Highlights: Olympiakos vs West Ham
- Player Ratings for Olympiakos vs West Ham
- West Ham’s Previous Europa League Matches
- Olympiakos’ European Record
- Premier League: Upcoming Fixtures for West Ham
10 comments
Gustavo Scarpa as player of the match? Totally deserved it man.
we got another shot at Olympiakos on Nov 9, better not mess it up this time.
Fortounis’s strike was legit fire! Where was the defense tho?
I thought Paqueta was gonna start a comeback, but too little too late I guess.
Angelo Ogbonna’s own goal was just unlucky. But gotta say, Olympiakos looked hungrier for the win.
Man, West Ham really dropped the ball on this one. What were they even thinking??
This is what happens when Moyes messes with the line-up too much. We had a good streak goin.
Those stats tell a story. West Ham dominated possession but just couldn’t make it count.
Finally, a win against an English club! Kostas Fortounis you beauty!
Moyes said the team was capable of winning or performing… well they did neither. smh