Liverpool crush West Ham 5-0, edge closer to record-equalling title

Liverpool’s dominance puts them as strong favorites to secure just their second league title in 35 years.


News Desk December 30, 2024
Liverpool's Diogo Jota scores their fifth goal. Photo: Reuters

Liverpool delivered a commanding 5-0 victory over West Ham at the London Stadium, moving eight points clear at the top of the Premier League and taking a significant step toward a record-equalling 20th English top-flight title.

Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo, Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Diogo Jota found the net in a rampant display, underscoring the Reds' dominance under Arne Slot.

The Dutch manager, who succeeded Jurgen Klopp, has now overseen 23 wins in 27 matches across all competitions, continuing Liverpool's resurgent campaign.

Diaz opened the scoring on 30 minutes after a fortunate rebound off a West Ham defender. Moments later, Nottingham Forest's Mohammed Kudus came close to equalizing, hitting the post. However, Liverpool put the game out of reach with two quick strikes before halftime.

Cody Gakpo netted his ninth goal in 14 matches, set up by Salah's deft touch, while the Egyptian himself added another with a curling effort at Alphonse Areola’s near post.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Liverpool Football Club (@liverpoolfc)

Salah’s goal marked his 20th of the season—making it eight consecutive seasons with 20+ goals since joining Liverpool in 2017.

Trent Alexander-Arnold, amidst speculation linking him to Real Madrid, delivered a stunning goal with a deflected thunderbolt that showcased why he remains a sought-after talent.

Despite transfer rumors involving Alexander-Arnold, Salah, and Virgil van Dijk, Liverpool's core remains focused on reclaiming the Premier League crown.

Diogo Jota added the fifth after coming off the bench, finishing a dazzling move orchestrated by Salah, who danced through three defenders before delivering his 13th Premier League assist of the season.

Liverpool’s dominance puts them as strong favorites to secure just their second league title in 35 years.

While Arsenal and Chelsea can close the gap later this week, the Reds’ form under Slot leaves them in a commanding position heading into the season’s second half.

Meanwhile, West Ham's manager Julen Lopetegui faces renewed pressure despite a recent unbeaten run, with the defeat exposing vulnerabilities in his side.

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