Arsenal leaves it late to overcome West Ham, goes five points clear in title race

West Ham United suffered a devastating blow in their fight for Premier League survival after a dramatic late VAR decision handed Arsenal a crucial 1-0 victory at the London Stadium on Sunday.

Leandro Trossard’s deflected strike in the 83rd minute proved decisive as Mikel Arteta’s side moved five points clear at the top of the table and edged closer to a first league title in 22 years.

For long periods, the match looked destined to end goalless as West Ham frustrated the league leaders with a disciplined defensive display. 

Arsenal dominated possession but struggled to create clear-cut opportunities, while the hosts threatened on the counterattack through the lively Crysencio Summerville. 

Goalkeeper David Raya was also called into action several times and produced a crucial late save that kept Arsenal ahead.

The breakthrough finally arrived seven minutes from time when Martin Ødegaard slipped a pass into Leandro Trossard inside the box. 

The Belgian forward struck goalwards, and his effort took a heavy deflection before looping beyond the helpless West Ham goalkeeper. 

The away end erupted as Arsenal grabbed what appeared to be a potentially title-defining winner.

However, the drama intensified deep into stoppage time when West Ham thought they had rescued a priceless equaliser. 

Following a chaotic scramble inside the Arsenal penalty area, Callum Wilson smashed the ball into the net after Raya failed to gather cleanly. 

The stadium exploded in celebration as West Ham players and supporters sensed a dramatic late point.

The goal was immediately checked by VAR for a possible foul on Raya, with replays showing Pablo having his arm across the Arsenal goalkeeper during the scramble. 

Referee Chris Kavanagh was eventually sent to the monitor for an on-field review, sparking tense scenes inside the stadium. 

After a lengthy delay, the goal was ruled out, prompting furious boos from the home crowd while Arsenal’s players celebrated wildly.

The defeat leaves West Ham stuck in the relegation zone, one point behind Tottenham Hotspur, having played a game more.

Arsenal, meanwhile, are now within touching distance of Premier League glory.