Liverpool surged to a commanding 5-0 victory over West Ham at the London Stadium, extending their lead at the top of the Premier League to eight points. The win was marked by a display of attacking brilliance and defensive solidity, as Arne Slot’s side showcased the cohesion and energy that have defined their season.
The match was effectively over by halftime. Liverpool’s relentless pressing and fluid movement left West Ham unable to mount any meaningful resistance. Luis Díaz opened the scoring after 29 minutes, capitalizing on a defensive mishap to calmly slot the ball home. This set the tone for a dominant performance that saw the visitors exploit the gaps in West Ham’s disjointed defense.
Mohamed Salah was instrumental, contributing both goals and assists in a performance that underlined his enduring quality. His first significant moment came when he received a pass from Díaz, executed an audacious turn to evade his marker, and set up Cody Gakpo for Liverpool’s second goal. Salah added a goal of his own before the break, striking with precision to make it 3-0 and all but end the contest.
The second half continued in the same vein, with Liverpool dictating the tempo and creating chances at will. Trent Alexander-Arnold added the fourth goal, a deflected effort that left Alphonse Areola helpless. His celebration hinted at recent transfer speculation, but the focus quickly returned to the team’s collective excellence. Late in the game, Diogo Jota completed the rout, capitalizing on Salah’s dazzling dribbling to slot home Liverpool’s fifth.
West Ham, by contrast, offered little in the way of resistance. Their defensive organization was lacking, and their attempts to build attacks were stifled by Liverpool’s aggressive pressing. The hosts’ best chance came when Mohammed Kudus hit the post, but it was a fleeting moment in an otherwise one-sided affair.
Liverpool’s dominance reflects their transformation under Slot. The team has evolved into a well-balanced unit, with a re-energized front three and a midfield that combines creativity with discipline. Curtis Jones, playing in an advanced role, exemplified this balance, contributing to both attack and defense.
The result leaves Liverpool in a commanding position as the league enters 2025. With a game in hand and a significant lead at the top, they are firmly in control of their destiny. However, challenges lie ahead, including potential injuries and the need to maintain their form against tougher opposition. Joe Gomez’s hamstring injury, which forced him off during the match, serves as a reminder of the physical demands of the season.
Despite these potential hurdles, Liverpool’s performance against West Ham was a statement of intent. Their ability to dismantle opponents with such ease suggests they are well-equipped to sustain their title challenge. For now, they remain the team to beat, blending style and substance in a way that few can match.
