Liverpool Thrashes West Ham 5-0: Salah Shines as Reds Extend Premier League Lead
Liverpool Crushes West Ham in Premier League Matchday 19: A 5-0 Thriller 🎉
Liverpool delivered yet another spectacular performance to close out 2024, dismantling West Ham United 5-0 at the London Stadium during Matchday 19 of the Premier League. Mohamed Salah, in his signature style, lit up the game with a goal and two assists, guiding the Reds to extend their lead at the top of the table to eight points over Nottingham Forest, who have played one game more.
This victory underscores Liverpool’s control over European football, with Arne Slot’s men showcasing their offensive power and composure. West Ham, struggling under manager Julian Lopetegui, found themselves completely outclassed in a match that reflected the vast gulf between the two sides.
First Half: Salah Leads the Charge
West Ham began with a glimmer of hope as Lucas Paquetá offered the first scare in the 6th minute. However, Liverpool quickly asserted dominance. Despite goalkeeper Alphonse Areola’s heroic saves in the 7th, 15th, and 23rd minutes, the relentless Liverpool offense broke through.
Luis Díaz capitalized on a fortunate rebound to open the scoring (0-1, 30’), just as West Ham seemed to regain some composure. The momentum swung further in Liverpool’s favor before halftime, with Cody Gakpo finishing off a sublime Salah assist (0-2, 40’), followed by Salah himself scoring in the 44th minute (0-3).
West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus came agonizingly close but hit the post in the 38th minute, foreshadowing the Hammers’ misfortune throughout the game.
Second Half: Unstoppable Reds
Liverpool returned from the break with the same hunger. Trent Alexander-Arnold, playing in a central role, added to the tally with a deflected shot in the 54th minute (0-4). The match was already beyond West Ham’s reach, but Salah wasn’t done. He mesmerized defenders with a slalom run before setting up Diogo Jota for the fifth and final goal in the 84th minute (0-5).
Despite their efforts, West Ham couldn’t salvage even a consolation goal. Kudus struck the crossbar in the 76th minute, summing up the Hammers’ day.
Liverpool’s Stellar Season So Far
This resounding win marks Liverpool’s 14th victory of the season, highlighting their incredible form. With a commanding lead in the Premier League standings, the Reds have set themselves apart as title favorites.
Meanwhile, West Ham’s struggles deepen, leaving Lopetegui under immense pressure.