Ghana forward Mohammed Kudus features for West Ham in FA Cup defeat to Aston Villa

Ghana forward Mohammed Kudus played the full 90 minutes for West Ham United in their 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa in the Third Round of the English FA Cup on Friday, January 10, 2025.

The match marked the first outing under new manager Graham Potter, and West Ham started brightly, showing promise in the opening stages.

The Hammers took an early lead in the 9th minute when Lucas Paquetá latched onto a pass from Crysencio Summerville during a swift counterattack, firing a precise shot into the net to make it 1-0.

West Ham maintained their advantage into the second half but saw their fortunes shift dramatically as Aston Villa mounted a comeback.

In the 71st minute, Ian Maatsen’s shot was parried by the goalkeeper, only for Amadou Onana to capitalise on the rebound and level the score at 1-1.

Just five minutes later, Villa sealed their victory. Ollie Watkins set up Morgan Rogers, who coolly slotted the ball into the net from close range, leaving the West Ham defense and goalkeeper with no chance.

Despite Mohammed Kudus' full participation and his efforts to influence the game, West Ham struggled to regain control and were ultimately eliminated from the competition.

The defeat brings an end to West Ham’s FA Cup journey this season, while Aston Villa advances to the Round of 32.