Liverpool stormed into the London Stadium in Matchweek 19, delivering a clinical 5-0 demolition of West Ham United. The Reds showed no mercy, converting five goals while racking up an expected goals (xG) of 3.13. Luis Díaz, Cody Gakpo, Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Diogo Jota all found the back of the net, showcasing their attacking depth. Meanwhile, West Ham struggled to find a foothold, generating just 0.83 xG from seven total shots.

Momentum and Key Stats

The match momentum swung heavily in Liverpool’s favor from the outset, as shown in the cumulative xG chart. By halftime, Liverpool had already scored three goals, leaving the Hammers shell-shocked. West Ham’s inability to create sustained attacking sequences is reflected in their mere 45% possession and only one shot on target.

Key stats:

Shots: Liverpool 22, West Ham 7

xG: Liverpool 3.13, West Ham 0.83

Touches in the Box: Liverpool 39, West Ham 17

Shots and Goals Analysis

Liverpool’s shot map underlines their relentless attack, with 13 shots on target translating into five goals. The majority of their high-quality chances came from central positions inside the box, where they racked up significant xG contributions.

Notable contributions:

Luis Díaz’s opener: Clinical finish from a 0.24 xG chance.

Alexander-Arnold’s effort: A long-range attempt with a low 0.01 xG, showcasing his audacious creativity.

West Ham’s shot map, in contrast, is barren, with just one shot on target and several speculative efforts from outside the box.

Possession Tactics and Pass Maps

Liverpool’s pass map illustrates a cohesive and structured approach, with Trent Alexander-Arnold acting as a midfield orchestrator alongside Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister. The wide interplay between Salah and Robertson stretched West Ham’s defensive lines, creating gaps for Gakpo and Díaz to exploit.

West Ham’s pass map reveals their struggle to progress the ball effectively. While Lucas Paquetá and Emerson Palmieri attempted to link up with Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus, the lack of penetration into Liverpool’s defensive third was glaring. The Hammers’ midfield trio, led by Carlos Soler, failed to impose themselves, often resorting to sideways passes under Liverpool’s high press.

Liverpool’s victory not only reinforces their top-four credentials but also highlights their growing synergy in attack and midfield. For West Ham, the defeat serves as a wake-up call to address their offensive inefficiencies and defensive frailties. Slot’s side will be brimming with confidence heading into the second half of the season, while Moyes will need to find answers quickly to avoid further setbacks.