West Ham United End Winless Streak with Dramatic FA Cup Victory Over QPR

Breaking the Drought: West Ham’s Crucial FA Cup Win

West Ham United have ended a run of 10 games in all competitions without a win with a 2-1 victory over Queens Park Rangers in the third round of the FA Cup. The match, played at the London Stadium on January 11, 2026, proved crucial for the struggling Premier League side who find themselves in a relegation battle.

Match Highlights and Key Moments

The Hammers dominated proceedings but struggled to break down an organised QPR defence. In the tenth minute of first-half stoppage time, Crysencio Summerville thundered an effort past Joe Walsh in the QPR goal to give the Hammers the lead. However, QPR equalised in the second half, forcing the match into extra time.

The breakthrough came in the 98th minute when Valentín Castellanos scored with a header from the centre of the box to the bottom right corner, assisted by Crysencio Summerville with a cross following a fast break. The Hammers picked up their first win since November thanks to a 98th-minute extra-time winner from new signing Valentín (Taty) Castellanos.

Significance for West Ham’s Season

West Ham sit seven points from safety, making this victory particularly important for team morale. Manager Nuno Espírito Santo acknowledged the significance, stating the win felt good for the fans and players who have been working hard. A victory over Julien Stéphan’s QPR could provide a much-needed morale boost as the club battles to avoid relegation from the Premier League.

The performance of Summerville and Castellanos offers hope for West Ham supporters. Their combination play proved decisive, with both players delivering when it mattered most. As the Hammers progress beyond the FA Cup third round for the first time since 2022-23, this result could mark a turning point in their difficult season.