The Gunners of Emirates put up a stunning play at the London Stadium. They sent 5 balls back of the net to smash West Ham 5-2. It was Bukayo Saka who stole the show, getting 1 goal and 2 assists as Arsenal moved up to second in the EPL table.
A Remarkable First Half For Arsenal And Saka
The Gunners controlled the play from the very start. In the 10th minute, Bukayo served a pinpoint corner that found Gabriel’s head to open up the score. Just 20 minutes later, Saka again picked out Trossard, who slotted in for Arsenal’s second.
Two quick goals followed. Martin Odegaard converted a penalty after Lucas Paqueta fouled Saka. Then Kai Havertz took advantage of poor defending to make it 4-0 within 36 minutes.
The Hammers fought by scoring two goals. Aaron Wan-Bissaka scored his second goal in two games. Then Emerson curled a stunning free-kick into the net. However, Saka added Arsenal’s fifth in stoppage time, firing home a penalty after Gabriel was fouled.
Calm and Composed: Arsenal Seal the Victory
The second half was much more tame. West Ham did try to fight back, but couldn’t find the cutting edge. Michail Antonio came close, but his effort deflected wide. Danny Ings missed a late chance after rounding David Raya.
The Gunners, meanwhile, focused on managing the game. Their early damage had already secured the victory.
Key Performance
The first player in Europe’s top five leagues to reach double figures for assists this season was Saka, whose contribution was immense, as his two assists and a goal were enough. Gabriel also played a pivotal role and added another derby goal to his impressive tally.
West Ham’s defense came under much pressure. Manager Julen Lopetegui, serving the suspension, would have been annoyed. His team’s inconsistency has been a worry.
Attackers Shine For Arsenal
Arsenal were in practically attacking fluency: what fun to watch. Having Odegaard back from the injury meant a lot. The link between him and Saka was essential in breaking West Ham’s defense.
The Gunners have scored 13 goals in their last three matches in all competitions. These include a 3-0 PL win over Nottingham and a 5-1 UCL victory against Sporting.
What Lies Ahead For Arsenal And West Ham?
Arsenal is six points behind the leading group, Liverpool, that are set to face Manchester City on Sunday. With the other team, Manchester City, experiencing a falter, Arsenal prove they can keep up with title contenders.
West Ham stayed in 14th and needs to find a semblance of consistency. West Ham will play Leicester City before games against Wolves and Bournemouth.
Post-Match Reactions
Mikel Arteta praised his team’s attacking start but admitted they need to manage games better. “We played so well at the start but let them back into it,” he said.
Lopetegui, on the other hand, was frustrated. He felt some decisions went against his side but acknowledged the need for improvement.
Key Stats
. Saka now has 10 assists in 13 games, matching records set by Fabregas and Ozil.
. Gabriel has scored 17 Premier League goals, the most of any defender since 2020.
. Arsenal have scored 60 away goals against West Ham, a Premier League record.
Jurriën Timber won more duels (7) and won more fouls (3) than any other Arsenal player vs. West Ham, while nobody completed more take-ons (2).
And only Bukayo Saka (9) had more touches in the opp. box for the Gunners (5).
Bombing up and down the right-hand side. 🏃#WHUARS pic.twitter.com/kUdhJt9BbH
— Squawka Live (@Squawka_Live) November 30, 2024
Conclusion
Arsenal’s explosive first half was all about their attacking strength, which Saka and Odegaard spearheaded as the Gunners continued their excellent form. West Ham was wholly exposed to defensive concerns that they desperately need to address. Arsenal fans will hope their team continues with this pace in the next crucial match against Manchester United. Meanwhile, West Ham has an uphill task to change the fortunes of their season, and the team must work on correcting both defensive lapses and consistency in order to climb out of their current struggles.
For more sports updates, make sure to follow us on:
Recommended for you