A Defensive Masterpiece in Lyon
When West Ham United stepped onto the pitch at Groupama Stadium, history wasn’t on their side. Five consecutive away defeats in all competitions loomed large over David Moyes’ squad, compounded by three defensive changes from their first-leg lineup. Yet what unfolded was nothing short of tactical brilliance from the East London club.
The Hammers transformed into an impenetrable force against Lyon’s star-studded attack featuring Moussa Dembele, Houssem Aouar, and Karl Toko Ekambi. Even during Lyon’s dominant opening 30-minute spell, West Ham’s reshuffled backline stood firm, executing Moyes’ game plan to perfection.
Tactical Superiority in Key Moments
Lyon’s aerial strategy played directly into West Ham‘s strengths. As Crickex football analyst James Wilson notes: “Without Kurt Zouma, many expected West Ham to struggle in the air. Instead, their physicality dominated Lyon’s crosses, showcasing Moyes’ preparation work.”
The clinical finishing displayed by West Ham contrasted sharply with Lyon’s wastefulness. While the French side managed 17 shots, only 3 troubled Lukasz Fabianski. West Ham’s efficiency saw all three goalscorers – Craig Dawson, Declan Rice, and Jarrod Bowen – find space with alarming ease against Lyon’s disorganized defense.
Midfield Control and Emotional Drive
Declan Rice’s post-match comments to BT Sport revealed the squad’s mindset: “We studied their defensive vulnerabilities after the first leg. Our attacking quality combined with their weaknesses created the perfect storm.” The England international’s leadership in midfield proved instrumental in controlling the game’s tempo.
The emotional significance wasn’t lost on anyone at Crickex. This marks West Ham‘s first European semifinal since 1976, with captain Mark Noble potentially scripting a fairytale ending to his career in Seville’s May 18 final.
Rangers’ Resilient Road to the Semifinals
While West Ham dominated headlines, Rangers produced their own dramatic European night at Ibrox. Kemar Roofe’s rollercoaster evening – featuring a disallowed goal, woodwork strike, and offside call – culminated in a 101st-minute extra-time winner against Braga.
Giovanni van Bronkhorst’s side demonstrated remarkable character, with full-backs James Tavernier and Borna Barisic providing constant width. As Crickex Scottish football correspondent notes: “Roofe’s hat-trick against St Mirren clearly carried into this match, proving Rangers can thrive even without Alfredo Morelos.”
Dewsbury-Hall Shines in Leicester’s European Breakthrough
Leicester City’s 2-1 comeback victory at PSV Eindhoven showcased Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s coming-of-age performance. The 22-year-old midfielder orchestrated Leicester’s play, demonstrating maturity beyond his years in continental competition.
His clever “around-the-corner” pass to Ademola Lookman created Ricardo Pereira’s winner, exemplifying the creativity Brendan Rodgers’ side needed in crucial moments. As Rodgers noted post-match, these European experiences prove invaluable for Leicester’s emerging talents.
Upcoming European Semifinal Showdowns
The stage is set for thrilling semifinal clashes across both European competitions:
Europa League:
- RB Leipzig vs Rangers
- West Ham vs Eintracht Frankfurt
Europa Conference League:
- Leicester vs Roma
- Feyenoord vs Marseille
(First legs: April 28 | Second legs: May 5)
West Ham’s defensive masterclass in Lyon stands as the performance of the quarterfinals, proving English clubs’ continued dominance in European competitions. With tactical flexibility, clinical finishing, and emotional drive, David Moyes’ side has reignited the club’s European pedigree. As the semifinals approach, Crickex will provide exclusive insights into these historic matchups. Share your thoughts on West Ham’s chances in the comments below!
