West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta provided a couple of excellent assists against Manchester United when the two sides clashed in the Premier League.
There's been a lot of talk about the challenges faced by the Red Devils this season. Erik ten Hag was likely aiming to build on a decent performance against Liverpool in their previous match, where they secured a point at Anfield. Interestingly, the Hammers also played at the same venue in their last game, suffering a 5-1 defeat in the League Cup.
Possibly lacking confidence, both teams struggled to offer much entertainment in the first half. It seemed like the game was heading towards a goalless draw as the second half progressed.
That was until Brazilian midfielder Paqueta decided to take control of the game. The former Lyon player really stepped up, delivering two excellent assists within six minutes.
The first came in the 72nd minute when he received the ball on the edge of the box. Taking a pass from Jarrod Bowen, the Englishman swiftly moved behind the United defence. Paqueta spotted the run and elegantly played a through ball with the outside of his foot, finding his teammate perfectly.
Bowen just about managed to get it past Andre Onana, sending the West Ham fans at home into sheer delight. It wasn't long before the Brazilian worked his magic again.
This time, merely six minutes later, Kobbie Mainoo made a mistake with a loose touch inside his own half. Without hesitation, Mohammed Kudus surged forward, tapping the ball to Paqueta. The former Ajax star then received a precise return pass, allowing him to take a few touches, compose himself, and unleash a powerful right-footed finish.
It was Paqueta at his mesmerising best, transforming what seemed like a draw into three points for the Hammers. What a perfect early Christmas gift for David Moyes and the West Ham fans!
This now means Man Utd will spend Christmas in eighth place, with just 28 points from 18 games. The Hammers leapfrog their opponents, climbing up to sixth – although Newcastle United could surpass them if they win or draw against Luton Town.
