Backa Topola 0-1 West Ham United: Tomas Soucek scores as Hammers progress to Europa League knockout stages

Tomas Soucek scored a late winner as West Ham secured their place within the Europa League knockout stage at Serbian aspect Backa Topola.

The purpose means West Ham have scored in 20 successive European video games, successful 18 and dropping solely as soon as.

It leaves Moyes’ aspect prime of Group A they usually solely want a degree in opposition to Freiburg on 14 December to earn prime spot, and keep away from a play-off in February in opposition to a aspect ending third of their Champions League group.

Hammers’ squad depth to be examined

West Ham have had loads of well-known European nights over the previous two years.

Despite the late winner, this won’t go down as certainly one of them.

Their efficiency was typically gradual and ponderous, possible down to the seven adjustments Moyes had comprised of their Premier League win at Burnley on Saturday.

This sport marked the beginning of a run of 10 video games, in three competitions, between now and the tip of the 12 months, so the below-par efficiency might concern Moyes, together with his squad depth possible to be used all through that interval.

Injuries to influential duo Jarrod Bowen and Michail Antonio are damaging they usually want extra from different senior gamers.

Said Benrahma had the only real shot on course earlier than the purpose, however was quiet, and Danny Ings, who got here off the bench midway via the second half, is at present on the longest purpose drought of his profession, at 24 video games.

Cornet was one other introduction off the bench, and his cross for the winner was pleasant, and he, and Moyes, can be hoping it is a second that sparks his West Ham profession.

After being Europa League semi-finalists in 2022 and successful the Europa Conference League final season, a 3rd successive season in European knockout soccer represents additional progress for Moyes, however it could go away questions in regards to the choices West Ham have at their disposal.