Liverpool arrived at the London Stadium knowing that West Ham, like them, were desperate for points. Both sides have struggled this season, and the Reds’ dip in form after a strong 2024/25 campaign has raised eyebrows, while West Ham remain perilously close to the relegation zone under Nuno Espirito Santo.

Both Teams in Need of Points

Espirito Santo inherited a disjointed squad following the Graham Potter era. While there have been glimpses of promise, West Ham must improve if they are to avoid a long fight against relegation. They went into the game unbeaten in three, including a draw at Bournemouth where they squandered a two-goal lead. Liverpool, meanwhile, were also struggling to build momentum, having just suffered a 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest.

Despite recent form, Liverpool held a psychological edge: they were unbeaten in their last seven Premier League meetings with West Ham, who hadn’t beaten the Reds since November 2021, scoring only five goals while conceding 16.

No Start for Salah

In a surprise move, Mo Salah was left out of the starting XI for the first time under manager Arne Slot, ending his streak of 53 successive league starts, also against West Ham last April.

Liverpool Dominate Midfield

The first shot on target came in the 21st minute via Alexander Isak, though both sides had threatened earlier with blocked or off-target attempts. Liverpool dominated possession, holding 82% midway through the first half. Ryan Gravenberch was particularly influential, completing all 16 of his passes and winning the most duels in the match.

West Ham’s Defensive Efforts

West Ham’s defence, led by Konstantinos Mavropanos, remained resilient. Mavropanos won three of his four tackles and made five clearances, while El Hadji Malick Diouf led the team with three interceptions. The hosts’ grit kept them in the game despite being largely outplayed in midfield.

Gakpo and Isak Combine

Cody Gakpo and Alexander Isak eventually broke the deadlock, with Isak scoring his first goal for Liverpool and his sixth in six games against West Ham. Despite West Ham attempting 18 crosses and Jarrod Bowen contributing three shots, they couldn’t find the target.

Lucas Paqueta’s late sending-off for two yellow cards in a minute compounded West Ham’s woes.

Van Dijk Steady, Wirtz Impressive

Virgil van Dijk was imperious at the back, completing 92.5% of his passes, while Florian Wirtz showcased improved form with a 93.3% pass completion and controlled possession, making just four turnovers.

Gakpo sealed the 2-0 victory in the 92nd minute, scoring his fourth league goal of the campaign and taking the Reds’ scoring lead.

Looking Ahead

Liverpool leave East London with three points and a much-needed confidence boost, while Nuno Espirito Santo’s West Ham must regroup ahead of a challenging trip to Old Trafford against a resurgent Manchester United.