United Booed Off as Bowen, Soucek Fire West Ham to Vital Win

Manchester United’s dismal Premier League season hit a new low on Sunday as they were beaten 2-0 at home by West Ham United, triggering a wave of boos from the Old Trafford faithful. The result drops the Red Devils to 16th in the league table, just two points above the relegation zone, and casts serious doubt over their direction under manager Ruben Amorim. West Ham, on the other hand, leapfrog United into 15th place with 40 points and record their first league double over United since the 2006-07 season.

Despite a promising start, Manchester United’s early energy quickly faded, and it was the visitors who made their dominance count. Tomas Soucek opened the scoring in the 26th minute following superb build-up play on the left flank. Mohammed Kudus outfoxed Amad Diallo before firing a low cross into the box, where Soucek cleverly flicked the ball through the legs of Harry Amass and past goalkeeper Altay Bayindir. The goal silenced the home crowd and shifted the momentum firmly in West Ham’s favor.

United tried to respond, with Bruno Fernandes and Rasmus Hojlund both having chances to equalize before the break, but poor finishing and Alphonse Areola’s commanding presence in goal denied them. Fernandes, in particular, looked frustrated after missing two efforts from the edge of the box, while Hojlund’s header missed the target by inches in the first half.

West Ham remained composed and doubled their lead in the 57th minute after another costly United mistake. Manuel Ugarte lost possession in midfield, allowing Kudus to break forward. He fed Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who had been released by United the previous season, and the former Red squared a perfectly weighted pass to Jarrod Bowen. The Hammers’ captain coolly slotted home to make it 2-0, leaving United’s defense standing still.

Alejandro Garnacho fired into the side netting just moments after coming on, Hojlund was denied by Areola in a brilliant one-on-one save in the 79th minute, and Harry Maguire saw a header from a corner kick collected comfortably by the West Ham keeper.

The final whistle was met with loud boos as United’s fans vented their frustration over a campaign that has spiraled out of control. What was once considered a transitional season under Amorim has turned into a crisis, with the team now dangerously close to a historically poor finish. With only two league games remaining, Amorim’s priority must be stabilizing a side that looks short on confidence, composure, and ideas.

There remains a glimmer of hope in the form of European silverware. United will face Tottenham in the UEFA Europa League final on May 21st, a match that could offer redemption and a route back into the Champions League. But given the state of their domestic form, the Red Devils cannot rely on that alone to salvage their season.

For West Ham, this win provides much-needed relief. After going nine league games without victory, Graham Potter’s side showed cohesion, resilience, and a clinical edge. Mohammed Kudus was excellent throughout, combining trickery with vision, while Bowen and Soucek did what United’s attackers could not: put the ball in the back of the net. Perhaps most satisfying for Hammers fans was the performance of Wan-Bissaka, who not only kept United’s attackers quiet but also played a direct role in both goals.

With their Premier League safety nearly secured, West Ham can now look ahead with optimism. Manchester United, however, are left to confront their growing problems, with one eye on the Europa League final and the other nervously watching the league table.