Matchweek 21 brought an exhilarating clash at the London Stadium, with West Ham United prevailing 3-2 over Fulham. Despite Fulham dominating possession and creating more chances, West Ham’s clinical finishing proved decisive. The Hammers capitalized on their limited opportunities, scoring three goals from just four shots, while Fulham’s inefficiency in front of goal left them empty-handed.

Key Stats Breakdown

Fulham outshot West Ham 19 to 4 and registered an xG of 2.13 compared to West Ham’s 1.27. However, the Hammers’ efficiency in front of goal was the difference-maker, with all three of their on-target efforts finding the back of the net. Fulham, despite their attacking intensity, managed just 4 shots on target from 19 attempts, highlighting their lack of cutting edge.

Momentum Shifts

The momentum graph showcases Fulham’s dominance in possession and attacking phases, especially in the second half. However, West Ham struck at crucial moments, with Carlos Soler and Tomáš Sou?ek giving the Hammers a commanding lead in the first half. Alex Iwobi’s late goal sparked hope for Fulham bringing them within one goal, but it wasn’t enough to complete a comeback.

Shots and Goals

West Ham’s shot map reflects their clinical edge, with all three goals coming from high-xG chances in central areas. Soler and Sou?ek’s strikes were textbook finishes from inside the box, while Lucas Paquetá’s second-half effort sealed the win.

Fulham’s shot map, in contrast, reveals a scattergun approach, with most attempts coming from outside the box or blocked by West Ham’s defense.

Possession Tactics

Fulham’s pass map underscores their possession dominance, with Andreas Pereira and Sasa Luki? orchestrating play in midfield. The Cottagers heavily utilized the flanks, with Robinson and Wilson providing width, but struggled to break through West Ham’s compact defensive setup.

West Ham’s pass map, meanwhile, highlights their efficiency and directness. Lucas Paquetá was the focal point of their transitions, linking midfield to attack, while Sou?ek and Kudus provided defensive solidity and attacking support. The Hammers relied on quick counter-attacks and precise finishing to outfox their opponents.

This was a classic example of efficiency versus dominance. Fulham will rue their missed chances and lack of a clinical edge, while West Ham can take pride in their ruthlessness and defensive discipline. For the Hammers, it’s a statement win, while Fulham will need to reassess their finishing to make their dominance count in future matches.