Leandro Trossard (foto: Getty Images)
Arsenal edged past West Ham after late VAR drama and stayed firmly in control of the Premier League title race.
Arsenal survived enormous late drama against West Ham and moved one step closer to winning the Premier League title.
The team of Mikel Arteta secured a huge 1:0 victory in London thanks to a late strike from Leandro Trossard, keeping the Gunners ahead in one of the most dramatic title races in recent years.
The pressure was enormous before kick-off.
Manchester City had already won their match and reduced the gap in the standings, meaning Arsenal simply had to respond.
The visitors started strongly.
During the first half, Arsenal created several dangerous chances and even struck the woodwork, but the ball somehow refused to cross the line.
West Ham, fighting desperately for survival, managed to hold on and reached halftime without conceding.
As the second half progressed, tension continued growing inside the stadium.
Every missed opportunity increased the feeling that Arsenal could be about to drop crucial points in the title race.
Then came the breakthrough.
In the 82nd minute, Martin Odegaard produced a brilliant run and opened space before delivering a precise pass into the penalty area.
Trossard timed his movement perfectly and calmly finished for 0:1.
The goal sparked huge celebrations among Arsenal players and supporters.
Yet the drama was still not over.
Deep into stoppage time, West Ham won a corner and chaos followed inside Arsenal’s penalty area.
The ball eventually ended up in the net and the home crowd exploded.
A lengthy VAR review followed.
After several nervous minutes, the goal was disallowed because of a foul in attack.
Arsenal survived.
Only two rounds now remain in the Premier League season.
The Gunners will face Burnley at home before finishing the campaign away against Crystal Palace.
After that comes the enormous Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain.
Arteta is now within touching distance of making history.
Arsenal have not won the English league title since the famous unbeaten season of 2003/04.
If the Spanish coach delivers either the Premier League crown or the Champions League trophy, he will secure legendary status among Arsenal supporters forever.
Manchester City still have a difficult schedule themselves.
Pep Guardiola’s side must still face Crystal Palace, Bournemouth and Aston Villa, while also preparing for the FA Cup final against Chelsea.
The title race remains completely alive.