West Ham United U21 — Valencia U21: 2:0, Premier League International Cup

West Ham United U21 beat Valencia U21 2:0 in the Premier League International Cup group stage at the London Stadium. The hosts took the lead in the second half and held on for a clean sheet. J. Kerr scored both goals for the English side.

Kerr found space in the box to finish a cross from the right. It was a simple strike, but the timing caught Valencia flat-footed. And here's the thing — the Spaniards had been dominating possession without creating much. By then, West Ham had been content to sit deep and wait.

Valencia conceded a penalty in stoppage time after a handball in the area. Kerr stepped up to convert from the spot. To be fair, the contact was clear enough for the referee to point to the spot. The goal sealed the result with a minute to spare.

Valencia had 68 per cent possession and 126 attacks compared to West Ham's 32 per cent and 52. But many shots meant nothing when chances went begging. West Ham needed only two efforts to score, while Valencia's pressure never quite materialised into clear openings. Three yellow cards for the visitors showed frustration building.

We had called for a home win before the match, with 47 per cent confidence. It was not a flashy performance, but West Ham kept their heads when it mattered. The defensive shape was disciplined, and they punished Valencia when given the chance.

West Ham had gone unbeaten in their last four competitive games, winning three and drawing one. Valencia's record was more mixed, with losses to Teruel and Conquense in earlier fixtures. The English side's defensive solidity was the difference.

The result puts West Ham in a strong position in the group standings. A two-goal margin gives them breathing room ahead of the next round. Valencia will need to improve their efficiency if they want to progress.