One of the stranger claims of recent days has been that us West Ham fans want Bayer Leverkusen to remain undefeated so as we can claim their scalp. I’m not quite so sure about that. Personally I’d prefer to play a team bereft of confidence and on a losing run. However, there are a few glimmers of hope ahead of Thursdays quarter final clash so don’t despair.
West Ham in for a Rough Ride Against Leverkusen. Moyes faces a big test against Xabi Alonso
The Allure of the Upset:
Forget cautious optimism, West Ham fans are hungry for an upset. Some believe facing an in-form Leverkusen will ignite a fighting spirit within the team, propelling them towards victory. The prospect of being the team that dethrones the Invincibles will certainly have its attractions .
A Vulnerable Giant?
Expert opinions add fuel to the fire. Leverkusen’s relentless pursuit of perfection might have a psychological cost. The pressure to maintain their unbeaten run, especially against a stronger opponent like West Ham, could be a double-edged sword.
Reasons for Belief:
West Ham shouldn’t be fazed by Leverkusen’s seemingly invincible status. Qarabag exposed their defensive frailties in the previous round, and Freiburg recently proved they’re not invincible in attack either. Historically, West Ham thrives in such situations, rising to the challenge when underestimated.
The Crucial First Leg:
The upcoming away game in Germany is a golden opportunity. A positive result will not only dent Leverkusen’s confidence but also set the stage for a dominant home leg. West Ham needs to capitalise on any vulnerabilities and exploit the mental strain Leverkusen might be facing.
Pressure Can Break Diamonds:
While facing an undefeated team is undeniably daunting, it also presents a unique opportunity. The pressure to maintain their perfect record might be Leverkusen’s Achilles’ heel. West Ham has the tools and the spirit to exploit this weakness and etch their names in European football history.
This Europa League clash is more than just a game; it’s a chance for West Ham to become legend slayers.