Newcastle United handled their business with impressive efficiency as they secured a vital 1-0 win over West Ham, further strengthening their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League. It was a performance that, while not thrilling, delivered the necessary result after a challenging period that included an FA Cup exit and key player absences. Eddie Howe’s side displayed a disciplined, professional approach, securing their first clean sheet in over a month and keeping their momentum going as they now focus on a more high-profile task – the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool.
Howe was understandably pleased with the response, especially after their recent difficulties. “A massive win,” he said. “One of our best games of the season. I thought we dug in, we were disciplined. We defended our goal magnificently. We’ve had a challenging week, and it’s a brilliant response.” He also praised Bruno Guimarães, who scored the winning goal, noting that despite some criticism of him in recent weeks, the midfielder has been a standout performer for the team. Guimarães echoed his manager’s sentiments, stating that the upcoming final was “like the World Cup” for Newcastle, emphasizing their desire to make history.
The match began with West Ham paying tribute to Michail Antonio, who made an emotional appearance after recovering from a serious leg injury. The home side initially came out with some intent, creating early scares for Newcastle. Mohammed Kudus exposed Fabian Schär in the first minute, but Tino Livramento’s quick recovery helped prevent any serious danger. Despite the early jitters, Newcastle soon settled into the game, although they were forced to weather some pressure from a West Ham side that was more compact and defensive under Graham Potter’s new approach.
Newcastle, missing several key players including Sven Botman due to injury, had to remain patient and resilient. Their attacking play was not fluid, but they found pockets of space through the creativity of Guimarães and Sandro Tonali in midfield. West Ham, on the other hand, lacked the required dynamism and invention in their attacks. Kudus, who had been a key figure for them, struggled to make an impact and was frequently thwarted by the solid defending of Kieran Trippier and others. West Ham’s midfield trio of Edson Álvarez, James Ward-Prowse, and Tomas Soucek failed to provide the necessary spark, leaving the forwards to do all the heavy lifting.
The game, at times, lacked excitement. West Ham’s defensive setup stifled Newcastle’s attacking rhythm, and both teams struggled to create clear-cut chances. However, Newcastle’s persistence eventually paid off when Harvey Barnes delivered a well-weighted cross to the far post for Guimarães. The Brazilian midfielder, showing great awareness, got in behind Ollie Scarles and neatly poked the ball past West Ham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola to give Newcastle the lead. There was some minor controversy surrounding the goal, as Alexander Isak’s movement appeared to involve a push on Max Kilman, but the referee saw no issue, and the goal stood.
West Ham, now trailing, attempted to respond, making substitutions with the introduction of Lucas Paquetá, Carlos Soler, and Evan Ferguson. Paquetá tried to get the ball to Jarrod Bowen, who had an appeal for a penalty turned down after a tussle with Guimarães. However, despite their efforts, West Ham’s attack remained toothless. Newcastle held firm, comfortably seeing out the remainder of the game and securing a crucial three points.
For West Ham, the season continues to be a struggle for consistency under Potter’s more measured style. While they are unlikely to face relegation, their lack of attacking creativity remains a concern. For Newcastle, this victory was another step toward achieving their Champions League dream, with Howe’s side now just two points off fourth place. The focus now shifts to Wembley, where they will look to secure their first piece of silverware in over six decades.
