
Jarrod Bowen’s late strike secures West Ham’s first major trophy in 43 years, defeating Fiorentina 2-1 in the final
West Ham ended a 43-year wait for a major trophy as they triumphed 2-1 over Fiorentina in a thrilling Europa Conference League final. The match, held in Prague, saw a tense first half with few clear chances. The closest either team came was Luka Jovic’s disallowed goal just before the break.
West Ham took the lead with a brilliant penalty from Said Benrahma on the hour mark, after a handball by Fiorentina’s Cristiano Biraghi. However, Fiorentina responded just five minutes later, with Giacomo Bonaventura’s stunning strike leveling the score at 1-1.
As the game looked set for extra time, Jarrod Bowen became the hero. Lucas Paqueta played a perfectly timed pass through to Bowen, who coolly slotted the ball past the Fiorentina keeper, securing a dramatic late winner for West Ham. The goal sparked wild celebrations as the Hammers secured their first European trophy in 47 years.
The match was briefly interrupted in the first half after plastic cups were thrown at Fiorentina’s Biraghi, resulting in a cut to his head. Declan Rice and other West Ham players urged fans to stop the disruptive behaviour.
With the victory, West Ham’s fans will celebrate their long-awaited success, as the club sets its sights on next season’s Europa League campaign.