Arsenal delivered an incredible first-half performance at the London Stadium on Saturday evening, securing a crucial 5-2 victory over West Ham. The win showcased their attacking prowess and moved the Gunners to second place in the Premier League standings.
Arsenal burst out of the blocks with a blistering display of attacking football. Gabriel opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a towering header from a corner, setting the tone for the first half. Minutes later, a swift team move saw Leandro Trossard finish with ease, doubling the lead. The Gunners continued to dominate, with captain Martin Odegaard confidently converting a penalty after a clumsy West Ham foul in the box. Kai Havertz added a fourth with a composed finish one on one with the goalkeeper, capitalizing on a massive defensive mistake by the hosts. Arsenal’s 4-0 lead within 36 minutes left the home crowd stunned and even saw some fans leaving the stadium.
West Ham rallied briefly with two quickfire goals before halftime. Aaron Wan-Bissaka struck first, capitalizing on a defensive mix-up, followed shortly by a superb free-kick from Emerson, narrowing the deficit to 4-2. However, Arsenal restored their three-goal cushion before the break when Bukayo Saka converted his penalty confidently following another foul in the box.
The second half saw a more controlled approach from Arsenal. While West Ham attempted to claw back into the match, they found no joy against a disciplined Arsenal defense. The Gunners, content with their commanding lead, managed the game effectively to secure all three points.
This victory propelled Arsenal to second place in the Premier League as it stands with Liverpool and Manchester City to play each other next. West Ham, meanwhile, remained mid-table in 14th place and only sitting 6 points above the relegation zone which will be a massive concern for the Hammers and manager Julen Lopetegui whose job is no doubt at risk.