Arsenal boosted their pursuit of the Premier League title with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over West Ham United in a match overshadowed by a dramatic VAR intervention in stoppage time.
A late goal from Leandro Trossard proved decisive, but the closing moments at London Stadium were dominated by controversy after West Ham thought they had rescued a point, only for their equaliser to be ruled out following a video review.
The result represents a significant step forward for Arsenal in the title race, while West Ham are left frustrated after a spirited performance that ultimately yielded nothing.
The game began with Arsenal asserting early dominance, controlling possession and creating the better openings. In the opening exchanges, they registered several attempts on goal, with Bukayo Saka and Riccardo Calafiori both going close as the visitors looked to break through.
Despite Arsenal’s bright start, West Ham gradually grew into the contest. By the latter stages of the first half, the home side had begun to impose themselves physically, forcing Arsenal onto the back foot and creating chances of their own. A notable moment saw a powerful header from Taty Castellanos draw a fine save from David Raya, underlining West Ham’s threat.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Arsenal struggling to convert possession into clear-cut chances. Their attacking play lacked precision at times, while West Ham continued to look dangerous on the counter-attack, with Jarrod Bowen testing Raya from a tight angle.
As the match entered its final stages, the tension increased. Arsenal eventually found the breakthrough in the 83rd minute when Martin Odegaard’s intelligent play in the box created space for Trossard, who finished clinically to give the visitors the lead.
West Ham responded with urgency, pushing forward in search of an equaliser. Their efforts appeared to be rewarded deep into stoppage time when Callum Wilson turned the ball into the net during a crowded set-piece situation.
However, celebrations were short-lived. Following a VAR review, the goal was disallowed due to a foul on Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, with officials ruling that his arm had been held during the build-up.
The decision sparked strong reactions from West Ham players, who immediately confronted the referee at full time. Earlier in the match, there had also been heated moments on the touchline, including a red card for a member of the West Ham coaching staff.
Despite late pressure and controversy, Arsenal held on to secure all three points. The victory keeps their momentum intact in the title race, while West Ham are left to reflect on what might an end to their premier league stay after 14 years
