Arsenal have taken a commanding step toward clinching the Premier League title after a dramatic 1-0 victory over West Ham United at the London Stadium in the 36th matchweek. The Gunners, who have not lifted the league trophy since the 2003-04 season, were on the verge of dropping two precious points but snatched a late winner to keep their destiny in their own hands.
The breakthrough came in the 83rd minute when Leandro Trossard fired a powerful strike past the West Ham goalkeeper, following a brilliant assist from Martin Ødegaard. West Ham thought they had equalized in second-half stoppage time (90+2) through Callum Wilson, but the goal was disallowed after a VAR review. The officials ruled that the ball had been won unfairly against Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, sparking furious protests from the home side.
With the victory, Arsenal sit top of the Premier League table with 79 points from 36 matches, five points clear of second-placed Manchester City. However, the defending champions have a game in hand, having played 35 matches. The Gunners now have to wait for City’s next outing against Crystal Palace, hoping the “gift” of a slip-up from their rivals will finally seal the title and bring the trophy back to the Emirates after two decades.