West Ham United defender Amber Tysiak is determined to see her side build on last season’s progress as the Hammers prepare to open their 2025/26 Barclays Women’s Super League campaign away at Tottenham Hotspur this Sunday.
The Belgian centre-back played a key role during the 2024/25 campaign, making 20 league appearances and scoring twice as Rehanne Skinner’s team grew stronger as the year went on.Their form after Christmas included five wins across all competitions, hard-fought draws against Manchester United and Manchester City and the remarkable comeback at Chelsea where West Ham became the only side to take a point off the eventual champions.
Tysiak admitted the squad had started slowly last season due to late arrivals and time needed to build chemistry. With the group now settled, she wants to see the Irons carry momentum into the new campaign rather than playing catch-up.
“We did well in the second half of last season, but we need to be consistent from the beginning," she said. "Now we’ve got the foundations, it’s about building on them and aiming higher."
Tysiak also highlighted a desire for the team to control more possession, having relied heavily on counter-attacks in the past.
Since arriving from semi-professional football in Belgium two years ago, the 25-year-old has become one of Skinner’s most reliable players. Her performances earned her a contract extension in January, recognition of her growth in east London both on and off the pitch.
“It’s been a journey,” Tysiak added. “I’ve developed into a more complete athlete, and I’ve taken on more of a leadership role. I want to keep pushing myself and help the team keep more clean sheets.”
Tysiak enjoyed a busy summer representing Belgium at the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 in Switzerland. She played every minute of her country’s group matches against Italy, Spain and Portugal. Despite defeats to Italy and Spain, Belgium ended on a positive note with a 2-1 victory over Portugal.
Reflecting on the tournament, she described it as “a great experience and an honour to play at the highest level,” while admitting her side were frustrated not to progress further.
Now back in claret and blue, Tysiak’s focus is firmly on helping West Ham start the season strongly and continue their upward trajectory in the WSL.
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