West Ham United puts step towards Conference League final

West Ham United secured a 2-1 victory over AZ Alkmaar in the first leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League semi-final tie, thanks to goals from Said Benrahma and Michail Antonio.

Intensity

West Ham pretty much controlled the game from the start of this match. However, it was AZ who took the lead in the 41st minute, as Tijani Reijnders finished off a great pass from Sven Mijnans to open the score for AZ. A very important goal just before half-time.

West Ham bouncing back

West Ham responded strongly after the break. In the 67th minute, the Hammers were awarded a penalty after Jarrod Bowen was brought down in the box by former Arsenal goalkeeper Matt Ryan. Benrahma made no mistake from the spot, slotting the ball into the bottom corner to level the scores. The home side continued to press forward, and in the 76th minute, they took the lead through Antonio, who netted a loose ball in the box after a corner kick.

Areola AZ tried to mount a comeback, but West Ham's defence held firm. Both teams seem to be allright with a 2-1 score. AZ didn’t want to take too much of a risk knowing a third West Ham goal would make their challenge next week much harder. West Ham United was happy to bring the victory all the way to Alkmaar next week.

Advantage West Ham United

The victory gives West Ham a slender advantage heading into the second leg, which will be played at the AFAS Stadion in Alkmaar next week. AZ will need to overturn the deficit if they are to reach the final of the inaugural Europa Conference League. The Hammers will be buoyed by their performance, and will be looking to secure their place in the final, where they could face the winners of the other semi-final tie between Fiorentina and Basel. Where the Swiss side surprised everyone by take a 1-2 lead back from Italy. The second leg promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams fighting for a place in the history books. Fans of West Ham are already looking for their Conference League final tickets in advance.