Arsenal 0-2 West Ham: Hammers stun hosts to climb into the top six

West Ham United concluded the year 2023 with a determined performance, securing a 2-0 triumph over Arsenal in the Premier League. This victory marked their third consecutive unbeaten match against the Gunners.

In spite of James Ward-Prowse's early shot, Arsenal asserted their dominance in terms of possession in the opening minutes.

Displaying a great deal of confidence, the Gunners exhibited their attacking prowess as Bukayo Saka made a penetrating run and attempted a weak shot that was swiftly saved. However, they found themselves trailing just 13 minutes into the match.

Emerson Palmieri's cross created chaos between Gabriel Magalhaes and Oleksandr Zinchenko, allowing Jarrod Bowen to seize the opportunity and set up Tomas Soucek for a straightforward finish.

Unfazed by the setback, the home team continued to control the majority of possession, but West Ham remained resolute. It took until the 30th minute for Arsenal to finally test goalkeeper Areola.

Even then, the Frenchman proved equal to the challenge as Saka directed a header towards the goal from Gabriel Jesus' deft pass. However, West Ham suffered another setback moments later as Lucas Paqueta had to be substituted due to injury.

Edson Alvarez's poor pass was capitalized on by Martin Odegaard, who delivered a precise ball that created an opening for Saka just before halftime. However, the winger's shot hit the post with great force.

As the second half began, Arsenal continued to dominate possession, but West Ham displayed resilience. Declan Rice attempted a long-range strike that narrowly missed the top of the net.

Not long after that, the Gunners were once again caught off guard by a cross. This time, former Arsenal player Konstantinos Mavropanos rose above Gabriel and skillfully headed the ball into the net off the woodwork, scoring his first goal for West Ham.

Around the 60-minute mark, Gabriel Jesus finally had his chances but failed to convert. One of his headers was saved by Areola, while the other missed the target.

Despite all the anticipation surrounding Rice facing his former club, the midfielder's evening took a turn for the worse when he fouled Emerson Palmieri just moments before the final whistle.

After David Raya saved Said Benrahma's penalty, the referee blew the whistle moments later, confirming West Ham's first clean sheet in an away league match this season. This victory marked their ninth win in the last 12 games across all competitions.

Furthermore, West Ham has been responsible for both of Arsenal's competitive home defeats this season. As a result, the Gunners have only managed to secure one win in their last five matches across all competitions, placing them behind Liverpool in the league standings.