Bruno Guimaraes of Newcastle United and Lucas Paqueta of West Ham United squared off at the London Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
While Guimaraes had the upper hand in April, as the Magpies won 5-1, neither club could be separated this time around, as they battled to a 2-2 stalemate.
The Hammers took an early lead thanks to Tomas Soucek, but the Magpies turned the game on its head on the hour mark with to a quick-fire brace from Swedish attacker Alexander Isak.
Isak was denied a hat-trick by the post after rounding goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, but West Ham earned a point in the 89th minute thanks to substitute Mohammed Kudus.
In the first half, there was substantial controversy around Guimaraes. After being booked for a challenge on Emerson Palmieri, the Brazilian escaped a second yellow card by bringing down James Ward-Prowse moments later.
West Ham manager David Moyes and veteran Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher both thought the 25-year-old was fortunate not to get sent off, which didn’t disturb the Brazilian pair, who exchanged messages on social media following the game.
Posting on Instagram, Guimaraes said: “It’s been wonderful weeks since we came back from the last international stop! Now it’s focussing on the national team and coming back to our team in the same way! Howay the Lads
Isak was denied a hat-trick by the post after rounding goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, but West Ham earned a point in the 89th minute thanks to substitute Mohammed Kudus.
Paqueta, who will not be joining Guimaraes on Brazil duty for the World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Uruguay, showed class by wishing the Magpies’ midfielder well.
“My family plays hard!” I adore you! “I’m rooting for you,” Paqueta said. “Always together, I love you brother!” Guimaraes added. I’m delighted to see you right now. My friend, I adore you.”
During their time at Lyon, Guimaraes and Paqueta formed a brotherly friendship that has carried over to the international level.
Guimaraes claimed Paqueta would be his “dream” Newcastle acquisition shortly after moving to St James’ Park in January last year, which has contributed to Eddie Howe’s side being constantly connected with the midfielder.
Despite the fact that Paqueta has only been at West Ham for a little over a year and that English and European champions Manchester City attempted to sign him in the summer.
Leave a Reply