Czech newspaper reacts as West Ham United pair Tomas Soucek and Vladimir Coufal feature in 3-0 defeat v Albania
West Ham United stars Tomas Soucek and Vladimir Coufal started for the Czech Republic as they lost 3-0 to Albania in their qualifier for the UEFA 2024 European Championships.
The Czech’s six-match unbeaten run came to an abrupt end on Thursday night (12 October) as they suffered a damaging 3-0 defeat to Albania hampering their chances of an automatic qualification to next year’s Euros.
Jasir Asani’s sweetly struck ninth-minute opener and Taulant Seferi’s double meant the Czech dropped down to third place in Group E, five points off Thursday’s opponents with a game in hand. Following the horror show, the Czech media had their say on the performances of Soucek and Coufal.
Hammers right-back Coufal was given a “4/10” rating for the defeat by Czech newspaper iSport (12 October) who reacted saying: “At West Ham, they are satisfied with his form, but he did not bring it to Tirana. He caused two cheap losses right from the edge, he did not succeed in cooperating with Černý and sent centers into the box for nothing. Much more was expected from the leader.”
Meanwhile, Soucek also struggled with a “5/10” performance, “He played a little higher, he was not involved in the preparatory combination as much as in previous matches in the national team. He was traditionally strong in tackles, but his contribution going forward was minimal.
Damaging
It certainly seems as if the Czech media certainly weren’t happy with their performances on Thursday and rightly so as the West Ham United stars are expected to lead from their front for their countries given their star-studded status for a top English and European outfeat.
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 but this latest performance won’t do their confidence any favours.
The Czechs are in serious trouble in their group right now and are incredibly fortunate to have a game in hand on Poland who sit in second place in Group E just a point above.
However, Soucek and Coufal have the opportunity to redeem themselves when they face off against Faroe Islands on Sunday (15 October) for which they will certainly be expected to provide a strong improvement.
David Moyes won’t want his trusted lieutenants to return from international duty with a lack of confidence ahead of a crucial run of fixtures.
In other West Ham news, a journalist has revealed what he’s been told about the club’s plans in the January transfer window and an “alternate” role for one big-money London Stadium signing.