Arsenal delivered a scintillating performance on Saturday, scoring five goals in a thrilling first half against West Ham to secure a 5-2 victory at the Olympic Stadium. The win propelled the Gunners into second place in the English Premier League, maintaining their pursuit of league leaders Liverpool.
The match was a historic affair, marking only the fourth time in Premier League history that seven goals were scored before half-time. Arsenal’s explosive first-half display, orchestrated by Bukayo Saka, showcased their attacking prowess. Saka not only scored one of the goals but also assisted three others, playing a key role in strikes from Gabriel, Leandro Trossard, and Martin Odegaard. Kai Havertz added to the tally with his first goal of the league campaign, ensuring Arsenal’s biggest Premier League victory of the season.
Since the return of Martin Odegaard from a two-month injury layoff, Arsenal has rediscovered their scoring touch. In their last three matches, the Gunners have scored an impressive 13 goals, including a 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest and a 5-1 triumph against Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League. Odegaard’s creative influence has been instrumental, as he continues to feed Arsenal’s dynamic forward line.
The win trimmed the gap to league leaders Liverpool to six points ahead of their clash with Manchester City on Sunday. Arsenal, who has finished runners-up to City in the past two seasons, might find themselves rooting for Pep Guardiola’s side to slow Liverpool’s momentum.
Saka’s exceptional form this season has been pivotal to Arsenal’s success. With 10 assists and five goals in just 12 appearances, the England international expressed his determination to sustain the team’s form. “I’m taking a lot of pleasure in creating and scoring, but the greatest pleasure is winning,” said Saka. “Let’s keep this form going. Definitely, the last three games we’ve been back.”
Elsewhere, Bournemouth made history in their 4-2 win over Wolverhampton, with Justin Kluivert scoring three penalties in a single match—an unprecedented feat in Premier League history. The penalties, all won by Evanilson, further highlighted the day’s dramatic action in English football.