Everton and West Ham United shared the spoils in a tightly contested battle at Goodison Park, with a late equalizer denying the Hammers a crucial win. Both sides had chances, but neither could claim all three points in what proved to be a game of fine margins.
West Ham Almost Hold On, But Everton Strike Late
West Ham took the lead in the 67th minute through Tomáš Souček, capitalizing on one of their rare high-xG opportunities (0.15 xG). Everton, however, refused to be beaten, pushing forward in the closing stages before James O’Brien’s dramatic 90th-minute equalizer (0.27 xG) salvaged a point for the Toffees.
Statistically, Everton had the edge in possession (58% to 42%) and created 1.52 xG compared to West Ham’s 0.69 xG, but their lack of finishing quality nearly cost them the game.
Match Momentum: Everton Keep Pushing, West Ham Resist Until Late
The momentum graph highlights Everton’s dominance in possession, especially in the second half, as they continuously searched for a breakthrough. West Ham defended deep after taking the lead, attempting to absorb pressure and see out the win.
The late equalizer was inevitable given Everton’s pressure, and the hosts will feel they deserved at least a point for their efforts.
Shot Analysis: Everton More Threatening, West Ham Clinical
Everton registered 11 shots, hitting the target five times, but their xG of 1.52 suggests they should have done better with their chances. Their shot map shows multiple efforts inside the box, but only one found the net.
West Ham were more economical with their shooting, taking just 8 shots, with 5 on target and an xG of 0.69. Despite their low shot count, they converted their best chance through Souček’s goal, demonstrating their efficiency in front of goal.
Possession Tactics: Everton’s Control vs. West Ham’s Pragmatism
Everton’s pass map indicates a structured buildup, with Idrissa Gueye and James Garner orchestrating play from midfield. Their approach emphasized patient buildup, working the ball wide to Vitaliy Mykolenko and Jack Harrison before attempting crosses into the box.
West Ham, on the other hand, focused on direct transitions and counter-attacks. Their pass map shows Lucas Paquetá and Mohammed Kudus as key creative outlets, feeding Jarrod Bowen in wide areas. However, their deeper defensive shape limited their attacking fluidity in the second half.
A Hard-Fought Point, But Who Gains More?
Everton will be relieved to have rescued a point, but they’ll also feel frustrated for not turning their possession and xG advantage into a win. West Ham, meanwhile, came agonizingly close to a much-needed victory, but their inability to sustain attacking momentum after taking the lead proved costly.