Wednesday night’s clash between West Ham United and Everton in Chicago’s Soldier Field proved a gripping contest in the Premier League Summer Series. Both sides, eager to set a positive tone ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, delivered a match full of twists, talking points, and a hint of drama that could shape their momentum for the months ahead.
Fast-Paced Opening: Everton’s Early Strike
Everton started brightly, displaying sharp movement and a clear desire to erase the memory of their previous defeat to Bournemouth. After an energetic opening spell, Idrissa Gana Gueye put the Toffees ahead in the 17th minute. He finished neatly after being released by young Harrison Armstrong, who capitalised on a lapse in concentration from West Ham’s defence. For Everton, the goal was a reward for their slightly more direct approach and gave fans cause for cautious optimism.
Despite the early setback, West Ham did not lose composure. Manager Graham Potter had set up his team to push possession and attack through the flanks. The Hammers began to grow into the contest, with Lucas Paquetá, Jordan James, and summer signing Niclas Füllkrug all seeing more of the ball. However, Everton, bolstered by James Tarkowski’s return from injury, managed to hold firm for much of the first half.
Two Costly Errors: Turning Point Before the Break
As half-time approached, the game’s momentum shifted. Everton keeper Mark Travers failed to gather a routine cross, setting up West Ham’s Lucas Paquetá to tap into an open net in the 41st minute. The goal was a harsh lesson for Everton, who had otherwise defended resolutely but paid the price for a costly lapse. Suddenly level, West Ham sensed an opportunity and went into the interval with renewed belief.
West Ham’s Revival: Füllkrug Decides It
Graham Potter used the interval to make tactical adjustments, bringing energy into the midfield and pushing the full-backs higher up the pitch. The Hammers were transformed after the break, dominating possession and creating clear chances through sustained pressure.
The breakthrough arrived in the 64th minute. Substitute Niclas Füllkrug, keen to impress following his summer arrival, latched onto a loose ball on the edge of the penalty area and fired home a precise, low finish. The goal capped the Hammers’ turnaround and highlighted Füllkrug’s proven instincts in front of goal. West Ham managed the final stages with mature game management, holding firm even as Everton pressed for a late equaliser.
Tactical Insights: Potter’s Possession, Everton’s Injuries
This meeting illustrated the progress West Ham have made under Potter’s short tenure. The Hammers played with purpose, using quick passing to switch play and creating width through their wing-backs. Paquetá’s creativity and James’ energy in midfield were central to their control, while Füllkrug’s decisive contribution provided the cutting edge.
For Everton, there were encouraging moments. Gueye’s energy, Armstrong’s industry in attack, and Tarkowski’s comeback from injury gave hope. However, frequent changes forced by summer absences and defensive errors proved costly. The side’s lack of cohesion, particularly in the final third, left manager David Moyes with much to ponder ahead of their Premier League opener. Moyes acknowledged after the match that Everton continue to face challenges in the transfer market, with squad depth a growing concern as injuries bite.
Reaction and What Comes Next
After the match, West Ham’s players spoke of the importance of building resilience and fighting back after setbacks. Coach Potter praised his side’s response to falling behind, noting, “We worked hard for that win. The players stayed focused and deserved their rewards”.
For Everton, the positives included successful minutes from returning players and glimpses of attacking promise. Still, the overriding sentiment among supporters was frustration at missed opportunities and lapses that once again defined a close contest.
Conclusion
This Chicago contest may have been a pre-season fixture, but it showcased the different directions both clubs are heading. West Ham, with a settled squad and a clear vision from Potter, look set to build on a strong summer. Everton, by contrast, must overcome injuries, find consistency, and address squad gaps quickly to avoid a slow league start.
West Ham’s comeback win over Everton will boost morale and encourage hopes of a more assertive campaign in east London. For the Toffees, lessons learned under the lights of Soldier Field could be critical as they turn their focus back towards Goodison Park and the challenges that lie ahead.
In a fixture that will be remembered for its drama, goals, and tactical battles, West Ham emerged deserved winners—leaving Everton searching for answers as the Premier League season approaches.
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