VIDEO: Kudus scores as West Ham secures top spot in Europa League Group A with win over Freiburg

West Ham secured a direct qualification to the Europa League last 16 after a dominant 2-0 victory against Freiburg at London Stadium, ensuring they finished atop Group A.

Mohammed Kudus broke the deadlock in the 14th minute, followed by Edson Alvarez’s strike just before half-time, sealing the win for the Hammers. The victory was crucial as both teams started the match with 12 points, vying for the top position in the group.

Kudus, who has now scored three goals in five Europa League matches, demonstrated his prowess, contributing significantly to West Ham’s Group A triumph. The former Ajax star has also found the net three times in the English Premier League and once in the Carabao Cup against Arsenal.

Kudus left the pitch in the 88th minute, substituted by Ivorian winger Maxwel Cornet, as West Ham shifts its focus to the upcoming Premier League clash against Wolves on Sunday.

David Moyes’ team rebounded after a 5-0 defeat in the Premier League last weekend to secure a seeded position in the knockout stages and avoid a play-off.

The hosts, eager for a 10th successive home win in Europe, came close to an early lead when Lucas Paqueta hit the Freiburg crossbar in the fifth minute. Kudus played a key role in West Ham’s opening goal, showcasing his skill with a well-timed run and finish past goalkeeper Noah Atubolu.

Mohammed Kudus makes football look very easy 🤩

What a player! What a goal! 👏

📺 Stream the #UEL live now: https://t.co/TesYUfo62x pic.twitter.com/ELLFKQD7J2

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) December 14, 2023

Despite calls for offside and handball, VAR confirmed the goal, and Alvarez extended the lead with a composed finish just before half-time.

Although Jarrod Bowen had a goal ruled out for offside, West Ham remained in control, with Freiburg struggling to pose a significant threat. Ritsu Doan tested Lukasz Fabianski, but West Ham continued to dominate.

In the second half, Freiburg showed more resilience, with Doan forcing a save from Fabianski. However, West Ham maintained their ascendancy, with Czech full-back Vladimir Coufal providing a cut-back cross to Bowen, whose effort went over the bar.

Despite Freiburg’s attempts, West Ham secured the victory, solidifying their position at the top of Group A in the Europa League. The Round of 16 awaits for David Moyes’ confident side.”