Liverpool's Financial and On-Field Dominance Overwhelms Struggling West Ham
The stark contrast between Liverpool and West Ham was laid bare in a comprehensive 5-1 victory for the Reds at Anfield, a result that amplifies the financial and sporting gulf between the two clubs. With Liverpool announcing record revenues of £703 million, reinvested into their title-winning squad, West Ham face a dire summer of player sales after posting a £104.2 million loss. This match underscored those disparities, as Arne Slot's side bolstered their Champions League qualification hopes while pushing West Ham closer to relegation.
Set-Piece Transformation Seals Early Victory
The game was effectively decided by halftime, with Liverpool exploiting West Ham's defensive frailties from corners. Hugo Ekitiké opened the scoring early, capitalising on a cleared corner to fire home a deflected shot. Virgil van Dijk then powered in a header from Dominik Szoboszlai's delivery, marking Liverpool's seventh set-piece goal of the year. The third goal, a brilliant volley from Alexis Mac Allister, originated from another corner, showcasing Liverpool's metamorphosis into the Premier League's set-piece specialists. Previously poor in this area, they now lead the division in non-penalty set-piece goals for 2026.
West Ham's Brief Resurgence Falls Short
Despite moments of promise from Mateus Fernandes and Crysencio Summerville, West Ham lacked the finishing touch, with Konstantinos Mavropanos missing a close-range chance. Tomas Soucek pulled one back early in the second half, but Liverpool quickly reasserted control. Cody Gakpo restored the three-goal cushion with a deflected shot, and though Taty Castellanos headed in a consolation, an own goal by Axel Disasi sealed a punishing defeat. The Kop's taunts of "You're going down with Prince Andrew" reflected the growing despair among West Ham fans.
Implications for Both Sides
This result intensifies the pressure on West Ham, with Nuno Espírito Santo's team now facing an uphill battle to avoid relegation. Liverpool, meanwhile, continue their impressive form under Slot, leveraging set-piece efficiency to secure vital points. The financial chasm highlighted in the week's accounts only adds to West Ham's woes, as they brace for a summer of upheaval regardless of their league status.
