Arsenal Defeat West Ham 2-0 as Declan Rice Scores Against Former Club and Saka Seals the Win
Arsenal faced WestHam United today in a Premier League clash that carried plenty of emotions, especially with Declan Rice returning to face his former club. The Gunners came into the game determined to get a positive result, and from the opening whistle, Mikel Arteta’s men showed their attacking intent, dominating possession and pressing West Ham high up the pitch.
The first half saw Arsenal creating several chances, with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli constantly troubling the Hammers’ defense down the flanks. Declan Rice, who was playing against West Ham for the first time since his move to Arsenal, controlled the midfield brilliantly, dictating the tempo and breaking up play whenever West Ham tried to launch counterattacks. His presence was felt everywhere, and he seemed motivated to prove a point.
Arsenal’s breakthrough came through none other than Rice himself. After sustained pressure, he found space around the edge of the box and struck a clean shot that beat the goalkeeper, giving Arsenal a 1-0 lead. The goal was significant not just because of the quality of the strike, but also because it came against the club where Rice made his name, making the moment even more dramatic.
West Ham struggled to get into rhythm, as their attacking players were often isolated. Whenever they tried to push forward, William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães stood strong at the back, cutting out most threats.
Arsenal, meanwhile, continued to push forward and nearly doubled their advantage before halftime, but a few wasted chances and some sharp goalkeeping from the Hammers kept the score at 1-0.
A worrying moment for Arsenal came when captain Martin Ødegaard had to be substituted in the first half due to a knee issue. His departure slowed Arsenal slightly, but the team quickly regained control, with Kai Havertz stepping up in midfield alongside Rice.
In the second half, Arsenal continued where they left off, pressing hard and moving the ball with speed. Their patience paid off when Bukayo Saka was fouled inside the box, winning a penalty. He stepped up with composure and calmly converted it to double Arsenal’s lead at 2-0. The Emirates Stadium erupted in celebration as Arsenal put the game firmly in their control.
From there, Arsenal managed the game professionally, keeping possession and preventing West Ham from finding any real openings. The Hammers tried to push forward in the closing stages, but Arsenal’s defensive organization and calm passing saw them comfortably see out the victory.
By the final whistle, it was clear Arsenal had been the superior side. Declan Rice’s goal and Saka’s penalty ensured a 2-0 win, a result that not only secured three important points but also made the occasion memorable for Rice against his former club.
The victory also highlighted Arsenal’s depth and resilience, even with the injury to Ødegaard.
Do you think Arsenal will win again in there nextmatch?
