West Ham fans
Image credit: Getty Images
A heated brawl broke out in the stands during Arsenal dominant 5-2 victory over West Ham at the London Stadium on Saturday, overshadowing an electrifying first-half performance from the Gunners.
The Gunners stormed to a 4-0 lead with goals from Gabriel Magalhães, Leandro Trossard, Martin Ødegaard, and Kai Havertz. West Ham responded with two quick strikes, but Bukayo Saka restored Arsenal’s dominance by converting a penalty just before halftime, capping off a frantic opening 45 minutes.
READ MORE: Jamie Redknapp reveals what’s “frightening” about Bukayo Saka
The second half saw little action on the pitch, with neither team adding to the scoreline. However, tensions boiled over in the stands as West Ham fans reacted to their team’s dismal performance.
One of many fights that broke out in the home end today as a result of away fans sitting in the home end. Need to do better @WestHam @WestHamHelp it’s not good enough. pic.twitter.com/Mshm4ByLib
— Ethan Storer (@EthanStorer7) November 30, 2024
Footage captured in the home section of the stadium showed a group of supporters engaged in a heated argument. One individual appeared to throw a punch, sparking a physical confrontation. The victim retaliated, rushing toward his attacker, before being restrained by other fans.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW.ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
As the scuffle escalated, another individual attempted to strike the restrained fan on the back of the head. Stewards quickly intervened, separating the individuals and escorting the instigator out of the stands. Eyewitnesses reported that the fan who threw the first punch appeared to have been “knocked out” during the altercation.
West Ham condemned the incident and pledged to take swift action. A spokesperson for the club toldThe Sun: “The club is aware of the incident and will be working to identify the offender(s). In line with our zero-tolerance approach, anyone identified will have their details passed to the police and will be given an indefinite ban. There is no place for this kind of behaviour at our stadium.”
NEXT ARTICLE: Bukayo Saka sends title message to Liverpool ahead of Manchester City clash