West Ham United U21s Set for Premier League International Cup Clash Against SL Benfica B

West Ham United U21s are preparing to launch their Premier League International Cup (PLIC) campaign against SL Benfica B at the Chigwell Construction Stadium on Tuesday evening. The kickoff is scheduled for 7 PM BST, and excitement surrounds the fixture as West Ham’s young prospects prepare to face a seasoned side from Portugal’s second tier.

With an undefeated start in Premier League 2, the young Hammers are filled with confidence heading into the PLIC. A strong challenge is expected from Benfica B, a team known for its robust academy and a track record of developing players who compete at high levels internationally.

The match is open to fans, with tickets available on matchday at the turnstiles. Adult tickets are priced at £5, while tickets for those under 18 are available for £1. Additionally, West Ham United men’s Season Ticket Holders can attend the match for free by presenting their tickets at the turnstiles.

Fans planning to attend the game are encouraged to use public transport due to limited parking options near the stadium. Dagenham East station, located on the London Underground‘s District Line, is the closest point of access, approximately 500 meters from the ground. Various bus services also provide convenient options for fans traveling from nearby Romford or Rainham stations.

The Premier League International Cup, introduced in the 2014/15 season, features a format designed to give Premier League academies international competition experience. This tournament consists of the top 16 finishers from the Premier League 2 and 16 invited international clubs, split into groups of eight. Each team participates in four group-stage matches, progressing to the quarter-finals if they finish in the top two within their group.

Lead coach Mark Robson is optimistic about the competition but acknowledges its unique challenges, particularly against international teams accustomed to the rigors of senior-level play. “I’m hoping to give opportunities to some of our younger lads,” Robson stated. “These matches are a chance for them to step up and learn in a competitive environment,” he added, reflecting on the team’s ongoing development efforts.

SL Benfica B, known for their productive academy that has generated considerable transfer earnings, will present a significant challenge. The Portuguese side has consistently performed well in their national league, currently sitting third in Liga Portugal 2. This PLIC fixture marks their first encounter in a four-game stretch of matches in England, which includes visits to Blackburn, Middlesbrough, and Sunderland.

The upcoming match will serve as a platform for West Ham to build on last season’s successful PLIC run, where they reached the semi-finals. Recently, the team demonstrated resilience in a preparatory match against Club Brugge‘s Club NXT U23, closing a 4-0 deficit to a 4-3 result, underscoring the squad’s readiness to perform.