After years of frustration at Old Trafford, West Ham finally broke their curse—and did it in emphatic style.
In a match that could redefine both teams’ seasons, the Hammers claimed a commanding 2-0 win over Manchester United, leaving the home fans stunned and their team dangerously close to the relegation zone.
This wasn’t just another defeat for United—it was a clear message that West Ham have found their rhythm under Graham Potter, while Ruben Amorim’s side is still lost in the fog.
Soucek and Bowen Strike Early to Seal the Deal
West Ham wasted no time stamping their authority on the game.
Tomas Soucek opened the scoring in the 26th minute, sneaking in at the back post to turn home a smart pass.
It was the kind of goal that exposed United’s fragile defense—and things didn’t get any better from there.
Just minutes later, Jarrod Bowen doubled the lead. After a mistake by Manuel Ugarte deep in his own half, Aaron Wan-Bissaka pounced, whipped in a cross, and Bowen was there to finish the job.
Two goals in quick succession, and the Red Devils looked shell-shocked.
Yoro Injury Adds to United’s Troubles Ahead of Europa Final
Things went from bad to worse for United when young defender Leny Yoro was forced off with a leg injury early in the second half.
His visible frustration while heading straight down the tunnel said it all.
With the Europa League final just around the corner, this was the worst possible time to lose a key player.
Manager Ruben Amorim, who had insisted on fielding his strongest lineup despite looming fixtures, was left with his head in his hands as Yoro limped off.
That decision might haunt him if Yoro doesn’t recover in time for the big night.
Manchester United Player Ratings: More Worry Than Promise
United’s lineup lacked spark and structure, and it showed across the pitch.
Here’s how they fared individually:
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Altay Bayindir (6): Couldn’t do much about either goal. Still looked jittery.
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Noussair Mazraoui (5): Struggled against Kudus and Wan-Bissaka all game.
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Leny Yoro (6): Looked decent until his unfortunate injury.
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Luke Shaw (5.5): Appeared nervous and disconnected, especially with young Amass.
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Amad Diallo (6): Tried to make something happen but was let down by decision-making.
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Manuel Ugarte (4): Gave the ball away for West Ham’s second. Subbed off before the hour.
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Bruno Fernandes (5.5): All effort, no impact. Frustrated throughout.
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Harry Amass (5): Guilty of ball-watching on Soucek’s goal. Couldn’t recover.
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Mason Mount (5): Bright moment early on but faded badly.
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Kobbie Mainoo (4.5): Invisible for much of the match. Struggled to influence play.
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Rasmus Hojlund (4): Poor decision-making yet again. Missed key chances.
Manager Ruben Amorim (4): His gamble on a strong lineup backfired, with an injured Yoro and another morale-draining defeat.
West Ham Player Ratings: A Team That Came to Win
West Ham, by contrast, looked organized, energetic, and hungry. Here’s how they stood out:
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Alphonse Areola (8): Huge late saves preserved the clean sheet. Heroic stuff.
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Jean-Clair Todibo (7): Calm and precise at the back.
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Max Kilman (7.5): Dominated duels and kept Hojlund quiet.
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Aaron Cresswell (6.5): Showed class in the buildup to the opener.
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Vladimir Coufal (6): Gave it his all until he couldn’t run anymore.
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Guido Rodriguez (7): Solid defensive presence and smart positioning.
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James Ward-Prowse (6.5): Should have scored but worked hard throughout.
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Aaron Wan-Bissaka (8.5): Man of the Match. Brilliant on both ends. Had a hand in both goals.
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Tomas Soucek (7): Got West Ham started with a simple finish. Controlled midfield.
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Mohammed Kudus (7.5): Dazzled in tight spaces. Two key assists.
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Jarrod Bowen (7): Took his goal well and celebrated with the away fans.
Manager Graham Potter (7): His plan worked to perfection. His team looked cohesive and dangerous.
United’s Season Spirals as They Drop to 16th
With this defeat, Manchester United have now slumped to 16th in the Premier League table—an unthinkable position for a club of their stature.
West Ham, on the other hand, leapfrogged them and now sit in a more comfortable spot.
For United, the Europa League final might be their only saving grace—but judging by this performance, there’s a mountain to climb before they can even think about lifting silverware.