Liverpool FC delivered a stunning performance on December 30, 2024, as they triumphed 5-0 over West Ham United during the 19th matchday of the Premier League. This emphatic victory not only captures the energy of the match but also confirms Liverpool's dominant position at the top of the league table with 45 points.
Right from the opening whistle at the London Stadium, Liverpool showcased their relentless attacking style, quickly taking control of the game. Mohamed Salah, who had been the focal point of Liverpool's offense, came close to scoring within the first five minutes. That initial chance, blocked by West Ham's goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, set the tone for what was to come.
It wasn't until the 30th minute when Luis Diaz broke the deadlock. After regaining possession deep within the opposition half, the Colombian forward took advantage of a deflection to find the back of the net. His well-placed right-footed shot ignited the Liverpool supporters, who traveled to London to witness their team's resurgence.
Sliding smoothly from defense to attack, Liverpool wasn’t finished yet. Just ten minutes later, Cody Gakpo doubled the lead, showing excellent poise as he netted Liverpool’s second goal after receiving a deft assist from Salah. By the time the first half approached its conclusion, the visitors were firmly on top.
The close of the first half saw Salah continue his remarkable form. On the stroke of halftime, he scored his own goal after turning expertly inside the box, scoring with precision and sending Liverpool fans wild. This goal was significant, pushing Salah's total to 20 goals across all competitions for the season, and he secured his record-breaking eighth consecutive season of achieving 20 goals for the club.
Despite West Ham making tactical changes at halftime, Liverpool remained unyielding. Trent Alexander-Arnold found the goal with a long-range strike just nine minutes after the resumption of play, ensuring the team had a commanding 4-0 lead before approaching the last quarter hour of the match. Alexander-Arnold's shot, deflected off Max Kilman, provided the perfect cushion for Liverpool.
The final chapter of the match saw Diogo Jota, who had come on as a substitute, finish the scoring with Liverpool's fifth goal late in the game. A well-timed pass from Salah allowed him to bury the ball confidently, sealing the resounding victory on the day. West Ham, who had been fighting for form, struggled to find their footing against Liverpool’s relentless pace and skill.
Wataru Endo made his presence felt after coming onto the pitch for Liverpool, making valuable contributions and showcasing his defensive abilities, covering substantial ground during his time on the field. His performance adds to the list of promising attributes as he continues to adapt to the Premier League's demanding nature.
After the match, Salah's achievements were the talk of the town, with pundits and fans applauding his record and his impact on the game. Liverpool’s manager, Arne Slot, lauded his players’ overall performance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining consistency as they push for the title.
This victory not only solidifies Liverpool's top position but also signals their intent to challenge for the Premier League title, looking unstoppable at this pivotal point of the season. With the win, Liverpool aims to carry this momentum forward as they prepare for the upcoming fixtures, leading them toward what they hope will be another successful campaign.