Liverpool's Financial and Footballing Might Overwhelm Struggling West Ham
The stark contrast between Liverpool and West Ham was laid bare in a comprehensive 5-1 victory for the Reds at Anfield, a result that not only bolstered Liverpool's Champions League aspirations but also deepened the crisis engulfing their opponents. This match unfolded against a backdrop of divergent financial fortunes, with Liverpool announcing record revenues of £703 million, while West Ham disclosed a staggering £104.2 million loss, forcing them into a summer fire-sale regardless of their Premier League survival.
Set-Piece Prowess Seals Dominant First Half
The game was effectively decided by halftime, as Liverpool's newfound expertise from dead-ball situations proved decisive. Alexis Mac Allister's stunning volley in the 43rd minute, Liverpool's third goal from a corner, epitomized their metamorphosis under manager Arne Slot. Once vulnerable in set-piece scenarios, Liverpool have now scored more non-penalty set-piece goals than any other Premier League team in 2026, tallying eight for the calendar year.
Hugo Ekitiké opened the scoring early, capitalizing on a cleared corner to fire home a deflected effort. Virgil van Dijk then powered in a header from a Dominik Szoboszlai delivery, his second set-piece goal in three games. Mac Allister's volley, originating from another corner, showcased a seamless team move that left West Ham's defense in disarray.
West Ham's Resilience Falters Amid Defensive Frailties
Despite moments of promise, with Mateus Fernandes and Crysencio Summerville threatening, West Ham's defensive vulnerabilities were repeatedly exposed. Tomas Soucek pulled a goal back early in the second half, offering a glimmer of hope, but Cody Gakpo quickly restored Liverpool's three-goal advantage with a deflected strike.
Taty Castellanos headed in a consolation for West Ham, yet an unfortunate own goal by Axel Disasi from Jeremie Frimpong's cross sealed a punishing defeat. The Kop's taunts of "You're going down with Prince Andrew" underscored the growing relegation fears for Nuno Espírito Santo's side, who now face an uphill battle to retain their top-flight status.
Implications for the Premier League Landscape
This result highlights Liverpool's strategic evolution under Slot, with set-piece efficiency becoming a cornerstone of their play. In contrast, West Ham's financial constraints and on-field struggles paint a bleak picture, as they grapple with the dual pressures of relegation and economic instability. The match served as a microcosm of the widening gap between the Premier League's elite and those fighting for survival.
