Czech media react to West Ham pair Tomas Soucek and Vladimir Coufal’s performances against Albania
West Ham stars Tomas Soucek and Vladimir Coufal started for the Czech Republic as they drew 1-1 with Albania in their qualifier for the UEFA 2024 European Championships.
Vaclav Cerny put the Czech Republic ahead in the 54th minute after being assisted by Soucek before the Albanians levelled through Nedim Bajrami in the 66th minute.
It would end all square, leaving the Czech Republic top of qualifying Group E on eight points and Albania second on seven points, with third-placed Poland and fourth-placed Moldova breathing down their necks on five and four points, respectively. Following the result, the Czech media had their say on the performances of Soucek and Coufal.
Soucek was awarded a 6/10 match rating by iSport (8 September) who commented “He gradually got up to speed. A promising chance after Cerny’s back pass was blocked by the defenders. He assisted on Cerny’s goal.”
Meanwhile, Coufal was awarded a 5/10, “He tried to make runs behind the defence, he sent (in) several crosses. He influenced his teammates with energy and enthusiasm – as soon as Cerny did not give him the accurate ball, he received a proper hair dryer from the experienced defender.”
Positive
It seems as if the media was relatively impressed by both players’ performances, even if there was some room for improvement. Both Soucek and Coufal playing regularly for their country during international breaks will only be beneficial, as it allows the pair to stay match-fit and ready for the return of the Premier League.
The fact that Soucek got an assist to his name is a positive sign, as it demonstrates that he is still able to impact proceedings going forward after a decline in form at club level during his recent performances across the past year. He was not in the squad for the match against Luton Town and it will be a boost for David Moyes to see him back on the pitch.
Meanwhile, it is clear that at the wrong side of 30, Coufal’s “energy” and “enthusiasm” haven’t gone anywhere, and with the player having started all four league games this season, it is important he continues to play regularly.
In other West Ham news, following some positive developments, a sack decision must now be held off.