Arsenal climbed to the top of the Premier League table with a dominant 2-0 win over West Ham United at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday. Goals from Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka sealed the points in a match that showcased the Gunners' control and depth, despite an early injury blow to captain Martin Odegaard. The result marked Mikel Arteta's 300th game in charge, with his side recording their fifth win in seven league outings this season.
West Ham nearly capitalized just 40 seconds in when Niclas Fullkrug headed over from close range following a corner. Arsenal quickly asserted dominance, however, with Jurrien Timber firing a shot straight at West Ham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola from a tight angle.
A major chance came in the 12th minute when Saka delivered a cross to Viktor Gyokeres, leading to a collision with Areola. The loose ball fell to Eberechi Eze, who blazed over from six yards out. The game was fragmented by stoppages, but Arsenal's pressure paid off in the 37th minute. Substitute Martin Zubimendi, on for the injured Odegaard, played a key pass to Eze, whose shot was saved by Areola. Rice pounced on the rebound, slotting home his second goal against his former club since joining Arsenal.
Odegaard's exit in the 30th minute after a knee clash with Crysencio Summerville was a concern, later confirmed as a medial collateral ligament injury. Arsenal nearly doubled their lead before halftime when Riccardo Calafiori struck the post, with the rebound cleared off the line by West Ham.
Saka Seals It from the Spot
The second period saw Arsenal maintain control, though West Ham hung in without truly threatening David Raya's goal. The Hammers failed to register a single shot on target throughout the match – their first such occurrence since January. Arsenal's second goal arrived in the 66th minute via a penalty. Timber was fouled in the box by El-Hadji Malick Diouf, and Saka coolly converted, sending Areola the wrong way. It was Saka's 55th Premier League goal, marking his 100th goal involvement (55 goals, 45 assists) in the competition on his 200th appearance.West Ham's only real chance came in stoppage time when Callum Marshall headed wide from a corner. Arsenal comfortably saw out the win, ending a recent home hoodoo against West Ham after losses in their previous two encounters at the Emirates.
Key Stats and Performances
Arsenal dominated statistically, boasting 67.9% possession, 21 shots to West Ham's 4, and 5 shots on target to none. The Gunners also won 8 corners to 3, with West Ham picking up two yellow cards. Attendance was 60,181, under referee John Brooks.
Standout performers included Rice, who was named Man of the Match for his goal and midfield control, and Saka, whose creativity shone throughout. For West Ham, the loss leaves them with just four points from seven games – their joint-worst start to a Premier League season. They've now faced more shots on target (34) than any other team this campaign
The team will welcome the international break. It should give newly appointed manager Nuno Espirito Santo enough time to implement his counter-attacking style, similar to what the core players were used to under David Moyes just 2 seasons ago. It also gives the new manager time to figure out who is best number 9 might be until Janaury when they can find some relief.