Tomas Soucek stated that repeated penalty practice in training was a key factor in West Ham United's FA Cup fifth-round victory over Brentford. After extra time, the two sides were tied 2-2, leading to a crucial penalty shootout. In the shootout, the Czech international, along with Jarrod Bowen, Callum Wilson, Tati Castellanos, and Dinos Mavropanos, calmly converted their penalties, securing the win for West Ham.  

After helping Jarrod Bowen score the opening goal in the 19th minute, Tomas Soček continued his usual diligence and energy in midfield, calmly converting the crucial penalty from 12 yards in the shootout. After the match, the Czech midfielder was all smiles, saying this game would be one of his most memorable nights at the London Stadium.  

Tomas Soucek said: "This is exactly the result we've been hoping for. We're very pleased with our performances in the recent Premier League matches. We hope to continue this momentum and also bring more celebratory moments for the fans."  

“We’ve known Brentford’s style of play for a long time, and it’s always been very difficult to play against them because they are a very strong team. This game was very tough, and playing the full 120 minutes was extremely taxing. Bowen was outstanding with his two goals, and then we won on penalties, which felt fantastic.”  

“We practiced penalties specifically in training, and it worked very well. This was evident in the match, with each penalty being taken exceptionally well. Penalty shootouts are never easy for goalkeepers, so it was crucial that Alphonse Areola was able to save a penalty. We are also very happy to have successfully advanced.”  

After defeating Brentford, West Ham United will host another top-flight team, Leeds United, for a place in the FA Cup quarter-finals. With their journey to Wembley just around the corner, Tomas Soucek hopes he and his teammates can seize this rare opportunity. However, the team's focus has quickly shifted back to their relegation battle in the league. West Ham United know that a victory against title favorites Manchester City in their upcoming match would put them out of the relegation zone.  

Tomas Soucek added: “Wembley Stadium is a coveted stadium. I played England there twice for the Czech national team. It would be incredible if half the stadium were filled with West Ham United fans. It might sound crazy, but we know we have a long way to go. First, we must focus on the challenges of the Premier League. I believe the team is in good form right now, and we are performing well, so everyone is confident.”

“We know the fans will always support us, so even though Manchester City is a strong team, we will fight for victory. We have experienced many difficulties this season, but the team hopes to finish the season in the best way possible and focus on the upcoming games.”  

Image source: Internet/West Ham United official website