West Ham United travel to Germany on a high after a chaotic 2-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers . However, a much tougher challenge awaits them in the form of Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen, who remain undefeated in all competitions this season.
The Hammers emerged victorious from a controversial encounter at Molineux on Saturday, but questions remain about our consistency. Manager David Moyes‘ side will need to find a way to replicate their second-half performance against Wolves if we are to have any hope of upsetting the German giants.
Leverkusen, under the guidance of former Spanish midfield maestro Xabi Alonso, have been in imperious form this season. They extended their lead at the top of the Bundesliga to a staggering 16 points with a narrow 1-0 win over Union Berlin on Saturday.
While a pre-season drubbing at the hands of Leverkusen might leave some West Ham players apprehensive, goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski believes the experience will prove invaluable. “The pre-season game was good experience because we now know what to expect,” Fabianski said. “We experienced the Leverkusen conditions, the stadium, the pitch, the atmosphere and the fans. That always helps you prepare for the next time.”
The Polish shot-stopper also stressed the importance of self-belief: “It’s a great challenge for us. We have to believe – and don’t underestimate our quality either.”
West Ham will need to draw on all their experience and fighting spirit if they are to overcome the odds and silence the Leverkusen faithful at the BayArena. The first leg of this Europa League quarter-final promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both sides desperate to take a crucial step towards continental glory.
If Moyes takes his ultra defensive low block invite them on system and select just the same knackered players it could be an Arsenal result for us. If we don’t attack we don’t defend, and we’ve proved it.