Arne Slots Liverpool cruise past West Ham United

Liverpool continued their compelling form as they beat West Ham United at the London Stadium to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table to eight points. A masterful display of attacking football from Arne Slot’s side saw the Hammers completely outclassed, highlighting the difference in quality between the teams.

Analysis of key statistics

1. Expected goals (xG): Liverpool’s xG was an impressive 2.92, showing their ability to create quality chances, while West Ham’s xG was a meager 0.32.

2. Shots on target: Liverpool managed 13 shots on target out of a total of 22, in stark contrast to West Ham’s zero shots on target.

3. Great opportunities created: Liverpool created six big chances throughout the game, while West Ham only had one.

4. Big opportunities missed: Despite their dominance, Liverpool missed four big chances, showing there is still room for improvement in their clinical finishing.

5. Precise passes: Liverpool’s precision in possession was clearly evident with 470 accurate passes for a success rate of 88%, compared to West Ham’s 382 of 85%.

6. Fouls committed: Liverpool’s disciplined approach saw them commit just seven fouls, while West Ham were whistled for ten.

7. Individual brilliance: Mohamed Salah’s brilliant run from his own half to set up Diogo Jota’s goal was a standout moment and demonstrated his exceptional quality.

A first half masterclass

Liverpool’s relentless attack overwhelmed West Ham early on. Luis Díaz opened the scoring on the half-hour mark with a powerful finish after his own pass accidentally bounced off Vladimir Coufal. Just ten minutes later, Cody Gakpo doubled the lead, taking advantage of Mohamed Salah’s mesmerizing footwork. Salah added the third goal just before half-time, taking his season tally to 20 goals with a low-tech shot.

A dominant second half

Any hopes West Ham had of a comeback were dashed shortly after the break. Trent Alexander-Arnold’s long-range shot was deflected off Max Kilman, leaving Alphonse Areola helpless. Liverpool’s substitutes caused even more displeasure for the hosts, with Diogo Jota finishing off the score after an incredible solo run from Salah.

Liverpool’s title ambitions

Arne Slot’s team exudes an aura of invincibility and delivers dominant performances week after week. Their dexterity and attacking ability make them a nightmare for any opponent. As rivals Arsenal and Chelsea struggle for consistency, Liverpool appear to be on course for their first Premier League title since 2020. Even Nottingham Forest’s exceptional form is unlikely to derail this juggernaut.

While the road to May is often unpredictable, Liverpool’s current momentum and strength suggests they need to take a break. If her confident form continues, Slot could well crown his debut season at Anfield with a silverware.