Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to eight points with a commanding 5-0 victory over West Ham, ending 2024 on a high note. The Reds dominated from the start at the London Stadium, with goals from Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo, and Mohamed Salah putting them in complete control by halftime. The result further strengthened their position as the top team in the league, solidifying their excellent form under manager Arne Slot.
Salah played a pivotal role in the win, continuing his outstanding season. The Egyptian star opened the scoring in the first half, helping him extend his tally to 17 goals and 13 assists in the Premier League this season. His goal against West Ham also marked his eighth consecutive season scoring 20 or more goals in all competitions for Liverpool, a remarkable feat that underlines his consistency and importance to the team. Despite growing speculation about his future at Anfield, Salah remains focused on helping his team achieve success and maintain their place at the top.
West Ham had a brief opportunity to turn the game in their favor when Mohammed Kudus struck the woodwork just before Liverpool doubled their lead. However, the Hammers failed to capitalize on this moment, and the Reds' superiority soon became apparent. Gakpo's clinical finish in the 40th minute put Liverpool firmly in the driver's seat, and the game was effectively sealed by halftime.
In the second half, Trent Alexander-Arnold’s deflected shot made it 4-0, and Diogo Jota completed the rout with a clinical finish, adding to Liverpool's commanding display. The final scoreline reflected Liverpool's complete dominance, as they registered 22 shots, with 13 on target, and an expected goals tally of 2.9. West Ham, on the other hand, struggled to create meaningful chances and never looked likely to challenge Liverpool’s lead.
Salah’s achievements during the match were significant. His goal brought his total to 52 goals across all competitions in 2024, the most of any player in Europe's top five leagues. Additionally, this was the eighth time this season that Salah had both scored and assisted in a Premier League match, setting a new record for such performances.
West Ham, currently in 13th place, will be looking to recover in 2025 and push for a top-half finish. For Liverpool, however, this victory was a statement of their intent as they continue to maintain a comfortable lead at the top of the table, with Salah at the heart of their title charge.
