A quarter-final spot in the Premier League Cup will be the aim for Albion Under-21s when they welcome Queens Park Rangers in their Round of 16 tie on Wednesday evening (ko 7pm).
Leigh Downing’s side enjoyed a fruitful opening to their tournament campaign this season as they topped Group E , finishing a point above second-placed Brentford and losing just once in six of their preliminary matches.
The Baggies won the 2022 edition of the competition, but were knocked out by Wednesday’s opponents and, eventual winners, at the last-eight stage last season - a result they’ll hope to avenge.
Last time out
Albion 21s leapfrogged group leaders at the time, Brentford, with a chaotic victory over Luton Town at the Alexander Stadium.
A spirited ten-man display was personified by four strikes courtesy of Souleyman Mandey (2), Deago Nelson and Michael Parker to lift Downing’s young charges to the summit of their group standings.
Venue
The Alexander Stadium, also home to Albion Women, will play host to the club’s youngsters on Wednesday night.
The Baggies are unbeaten at the Alex in the PL Cup thus far, having picked up important wins over Brentford and Luton, along with a draw against Exeter City, en route to top spot.
Pre-match thoughts
Albion U21s top-scorer Souleyman Mandey has found his form to be “key” to his progress so far this season.
The attacking midfielder, who turned 20 on Friday, hasn't only got his eyes on progressing in the Premier League Cup - where he’s scored five of his nine goals this season - but also gaining more experience in senior football.
Still, the forward-thinking youngster can rely on his form with Downing’s group, along with his experience playing for his nation (Austria) at youth level, when it comes to propelling the Baggies' PL2 team to the latter stages of this tournament.
Like many others, Mandey was part of the team who were knocked out by QPR last season, but the former Rangers and KSV Siemens youth player believes Downing's group know what they can do “better” in a high-stakes affair this time around.
He said: “I set myself a target at the start of the season, knowing that I can reach it. I’m really close to that now.
“I always wanted to play in midfield because I enjoy getting on the ball and moving it forwards. I’ve always had an attacking instinct since playing for Austria (U17s).
“I played as a striker for my country, so I developed that ability and got used to getting into areas to score goals.
“Me scoring goals, and helping the team in doing so, gives us all a bit of a boost to put in performances. It’s always a good feeling to score.
“I try and get on the scoresheet as often as I can, or create goals when I’m able to. We need to score more goals, so we’re all pushing each other to contribute.
“It’s always a good feeling to get recognition, but I know I’ve got a long way to go in my development. I just need to continue my progress, keep my head down, and focus on what I do best.
“I want to be a good leader within the squad for the under-18s coming through. It’s important to be a voice on the pitch for the younger lads coming through.
“Last year, we were unfortunate not to get into the semi-finals - but we’ve got the same opponents this time, so we’re hoping for a different scoreline.
“My aim is to continue my form and get experience in men’s football to gain additional experience. I’m enjoying the PL Cup because it’s a good place to develop.
“We’ve got a new squad compared to last year, and plenty of new faces in our ranks. That said, we have plenty of players who would’ve played in the game, so they know what we can do better this time out.”
How to follow
Tickets will be available for Albion's Premier League Cup tie against QPR on Wednesday evening.
Supporters can buy tickets on the gate on the day of the game at the Alexander Stadium. Tickets will not be available to purchase online for this fixture.
They are priced at £4 adults, and £2 for Under-17s and 65+. As with other Premier League youth cup competitions, free entry for season ticket holders is not available for any of this year's matches in the PL Cup.
Parking for supporters will be available at the Alex on Wednesday. Those attending will be directed by stewards upon entry and asked to park on either the car park adjacent to the High Performance Centre, or the overflow section situated to the south side of the stadium.
Alternatively, WBA TV+ subscribers will be able to watch a live stream of the game here from 6.50pm.
Supporters can keep up-to-date with Wednesday’s match across the club’s social media channels, with half-time, full-time, and goal updates as they go in.
