Liverpool concluded 2024 with a stunning 5-0 victory over West Ham, showcasing their dominance and skill on the pitch. Discover the match highlights and analysis.
Introduction:
Liverpool delivered an emphatic statement in the Premier League title race, thrashing West Ham 5-0 at London Stadium to close the year with their lead at the top extended to eight points. Arne Slot’s team showcased their attacking prowess in a scintillating performance that left the Hammers reeling.
Goals from Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo, and Mohamed Salah sealed the game before halftime, second-half strikes from Trent Alexander-Arnold and Diogo Jota completing the rout. The victory really underscored Liverpool’s dominance leaving their title rivals hoping for a slip-up into the new year.
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Liverpool Dominant in First Half
Liverpool set the tone early, as in the opening minutes, Salah tested Alphonse Areola. Relentless pressure by the Reds finally paid off at the 30th minute when Luis Diaz smashed the shot in off the post for the visitors to take a deserved lead.
West Ham almost equalized when Mohammed Kudus hit the woodwork, but Liverpool responded immediately. With a quick spin past his marker, Salah set up Cody Gakpo to slot home a cool finish, doubling the lead within two minutes.
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Salah added Liverpool’s third before half time, curling a precise shot into the net for his 17th league goal of the season. Egyptian star further continued his exceptional campaign as he cemented himself even more as one of the consistent performers in the league.
Second half: Reds’ Ruthless Finish
The second half saw Liverpool drop their tempo slightly but remain clinical. Trent Alexander-Arnold scored a deflected long-range rocket in the 54th minute, leaving Areola helpless. See also: Chiesa Scores First Goal as Liverpool Ease Past Accrington 4-0: FA Cup
The hopes of a comeback for West Ham were further dashed when star player Jarrod Bowen left the pitch injured, which was a blow compounded by the frustrations of the Hammers. Liverpool’s fifth goal came from substitute Diogo Jota, who lashed in a finish from another Salah assist.
Though West Ham nearly snatched a consolation when Luis Guilherme hit the post in stoppage time, the difference in class between the two sides was evident throughout.
Mohamed Salah: The Record Breaker
Salah’s brilliance again shone bright as he set a Premier League record, as no player had scored and assisted in eight different games in a season. He has been crucial for Liverpool in their dominance this year and is the force behind their title charge.
Whether spinning a perfect pass to set up Gakpo or curling in a stunning strike, Salah’s impact was undeniable. And with Liverpool chasing their first title under Slot, the Egyptian star continues to lead by example.
West Ham’s Struggles
Julen Lopetegui’s team entered the game on the back of a four-match unbeaten run but were outclassed from the first whistle. Despite some bright moments from Kudus, who hit the post and created opportunities, the Hammers’ defense was unable to withstand Liverpool’s relentless attacks.
West Ham is exposed in a defeat that highlighted the gulf between the Hammers and the league’s elite. It was a day when West Ham’s frailties in defense and missed chances, not to mention Jamie Vardy’s close-range miss, left home fans with little to cheer.
Though losing to the league leaders is far from catastrophic, the manner of defeat will smart. Lopetegui must rally his team ahead of the daunting trip to Manchester City.
What’s Next for Liverpool?
With a break before their next game against arch-rivals Manchester United on January 5, Liverpool can rest and regroup. The Reds look poised to extend their lead at the top in 2025, with the team firing on all cylinders.
For Slot, though, this comprehensive victory caps a remarkable end to the year. Liverpool’s form, depth, and record-breaking performances make them clear favorites in the title race with their rivals left hoping for a miracle.