West Ham United players Jarrod Bowen and Tomas Soucek have dedicated their 2-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers to teammate Michail Antonio, who is recovering from a serious car crash.
The Jamaica striker underwent surgery for a lower limb fracture after being rescued from his Ferrari following the accident in Epping on December 7, 2024. Manager Julen Lopetegui described Antonio's survival as a “miracle.”
Fans showed their support with a minute’s applause in the ninth minute, matching Antonio’s shirt number. Bowen celebrated his winning goal in the 72nd minute by holding up Antonio’s jersey, saying, “That meant everything. To share that moment, he’s not here with us but I’m sure he was watching.”
Soucek, who scored West Ham’s opening goal, also paid tribute. He revealed, “The goal was for him. I dedicated it to him… I was so scared what was going to happen. It was a really tough week for him, his family, and us.”
Antonio, 34, had played in all of West Ham’s Premier League games this season before the crash. He remains in the hospital after surgery. Ahead of the match, he inspired his teammates with a video call, making jokes and wishing them well. Soucek added, “He smiled to us and gave us all the best. I can’t wait to visit him.”
The Hammers’ victory lifts spirits as the team and fans rally around their injured teammate.
