Following Bayer Leverkusen’s triumph over West Ham United in the Europa League quarter-finals, coach Xabi Alonso commended two players from the Premier League team for their performance.
In the first leg, Alonso’s team secured a 2-0 victory and progressed to the next round with a 3-1 aggregate win, despite a 1-1 draw at the London Stadium.
Despite Michail Antonio giving the Hammers an early lead, a late goal from Jeremie Frimpong ensured that the Bundesliga champions escaped defeat.
Alonso, in his post-match comments, praised Jarrod Bowen and Lucas Paqueta of West Ham, highlighting their incredible skill and physical presence.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Alonso acknowledged the strength and energy of West Ham’s players, noting the contrast in their performance compared to the previous match in Leverkusen.
According to Alonso, managing challenging situations is crucial in football, especially when facing a team like West Ham known for their physical style of play. He specifically commended the abilities of Bowen and Paqueta.