National media wowed by what West Ham United ace Michail Antonio did in Jamaica v Ecuador
West Ham striker Michail Antonio impressed despite Jamaica falling to a 3-1 defeat against Ecuador on Wednesday (26 June).
The 34-year-old scored Jamaica’s only goal of the game as they were condemned to their second defeat in as many games, now sitting bottom of Group B at the Copa America.
A Kasey Palmer own-goal opened the scoring before soon-to-be Chelsea talent Kendry Paez converted from the penalty spot on the stroke of half-time. Antonio offered a glimmer of hope before Alan Minda closed out the game for Ecuador.
Reacting to the Hammers’ star’s performance, the Jamaica Observer [27 June] wrote: “Jamaica’s good start to the second half was rewarded when Michail Antonio was well-placed to swivel and hit the ball off the base of the left post for the Reggae Boyz’ first-ever goal in the tournament, breaking a drought of 684 minutes and seven and a half games.”
The Jamaica Gleaner [27 June] piled on the praise, writing: “Antonio scored after Palmer’s corner kick bounced to Ethan Pinnock. His shot hit the back of defender William Pacho, ricocheted off Hincapié and bounced toward Antonio.
“The burly striker swivelled and volleyed the ball in off goalkeeper Alexander Domínguez’s right post for Antonio’s fourth goal in 16 appearances.”
West Ham United striker Michail Antonio impresses despite international defeat
While Julen Lopetegui continues his search for a brand-new striker, Antonio is making it very clear that he believes he has what it takes to be West Ham’s first choice next season.
However, the forward was plagued by injury last term, which will not help his case during the summer transfer window, having missed 12 Premier League matches.
He also only managed to notch six goals in 26 appearances but continues to work hard for the team, being known for his intelligent runs in behind and effective hold-up play.
Of course, as the Hammers start a new era under Lopetegui, the manager is likely to bring in a set of players that suit his style of play, but Antonio’s impact cannot be understated.
The Jamaican brings other players into the game, such as Jarrod Bowen, Mohammed Kudus and Lucas Paqueta, but his game time will always need to be managed due to his age and recent injury record.
In other West Ham news, Ben Johnson has completed a medical as a transfer news update emerges from London Stadium.
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