Taty Castellanos's first goal for West Ham United came at a crucial moment, saving the Premier League team from an FA Cup third-round upset against Queens Park Rangers (QPR). The match concluded with a 2-1 victory for West Ham after extra time, but not before a tense battle at London Stadium.

West Ham, struggling with a ten-game winless run, hoped the FA Cup tie would provide a much-needed morale boost. However, QPR, despite their own challenges, proved to be a tough opponent. The first half was disjointed, with a lengthy stoppage due to a head injury to West Ham's Dinos Mavropanos. Crysencio Summerville eventually broke the deadlock ten minutes into added time, finishing off a swift move involving Pablo, Soungoutou Magassa.

QPR responded in the 65th minute when Richard Kone headed in a cross from Karamoko Dembélé, leveling the score and threatening an upset. Despite West Ham's pressure, QPR held firm, forcing the game into extra time.

In the first half of extra time, West Ham finally found the breakthrough. Summerville, displaying excellent skill, turned away from Jimmy Dunne on the left and delivered a precise cross for Castellanos, who powerfully headed the ball past QPR goalkeeper Joe Walsh. The goal, Castellanos's first for the club since his recent transfer from Lazio, secured West Ham's progression to the FA Cup fourth round.

The victory brings relief to under-pressure West Ham boss Nuno Espirito Santo. The team, which has been struggling in the Premier League, desperately needed a win to boost confidence. For QPR, the loss extends their poor FA Cup record, marking their 53rd third-round defeat, the most of any club.

The match also highlighted the debut of some of West Ham's new signings, including Castellanos, who was brought in to bolster the team's attacking options. While his first goal was significant, more will be expected of him as West Ham navigates a difficult season. West Ham will face Tottenham in a crucial Premier League clash next week.