Arsenal fans had plenty to cheer about at the Emirates as the Gunners secured a comfortable 2-0 victory over West Ham United, with former Hammer Declan Rice delivering a decisive blow to his old side and Bukayo Saka sealing the win from the penalty spot.
Rice Returns to Haunt West Ham
The spotlight was always going to be on
Declan Rice, and he didn’t disappoint. The England midfielder, who made a high-profile switch from West Ham to Arsenal, opened the scoring in the 38th minute. Rice’s goal was met with a mix of celebration and respectful applause, as he chose not to over-celebrate against the club where he made his name.
Rice’s performance was commanding throughout, anchoring the midfield and dictating play. His goal was a reminder of what West Ham lost—and what Arsenal gained—when he made the move across London.
Saka’s Penalty Puts Game to Bed
Arsenal continued to pile on the pressure after halftime, with
Bukayo Saka converting a penalty in the 67th minute to double the lead. Saka’s composure from the spot has become a hallmark of his game, and he made no mistake, sending the West Ham keeper the wrong way.
The Gunners controlled possession and tempo, rarely allowing West Ham a sniff at goal. West Ham’s defense, already stretched thin by injuries and suspensions, struggled to contain Arsenal’s fluid attack.
West Ham’s Struggles Continue
For West Ham, the defeat compounds a difficult start to the season. The Hammers have now managed just one win in their opening seven matches, leaving them hovering near the relegation zone. Key absences, including Tomáš Souček (suspended) and George Earthy (injured), left the squad depleted and lacking bite in midfield.
Captain Jarrod Bowen, who scored the winner at the Emirates last season, was largely kept quiet by Arsenal’s disciplined back line. Despite a late flurry of corners and half-chances, West Ham never truly threatened to get back into the game.
Arsenal’s Title Ambitions Stay Alive
With this win, Arsenal keep the pressure on league leaders Liverpool, moving to 16 points from seven matches and maintaining their strong early-season form. Manager Mikel Arteta praised his side’s professionalism and focus, highlighting Rice’s impact both on and off the ball.
The Gunners’ depth was on display, with new signings and established stars combining seamlessly. The result sends a clear message: Arsenal are serious contenders in this year’s Premier League title race.
What’s Next?
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Arsenal: Continue their campaign with momentum, eyeing the top spot and building on a solid defensive record.
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West Ham: Face a crucial run of fixtures as they look to climb out of the relegation zone and rediscover their attacking spark.
The London derby may be over, but the storylines—Rice’s redemption, Arsenal’s title charge, and West Ham’s struggles—are just heating up.
Sources
1. Arsenal 2-0 West Ham (Oct 4, 2025) Final Score - ESPN
2. Arsenal vs West Ham: Preview, Prediction & Lineups
3. Arsenal v. West Ham | PREMIER LEAGUE HIGHLIGHTS | 10/4/2025
4. Arsenal News & Transfer Rumours
5. Saka's penalty gives Arsenal 2-0 lead v. West Ham - NBC Sports
6. Latest News | West Ham United F.C.
7. Arsenal 2-0 West Ham | Premier League highlights - Sky Sports
8. Pain in the Arsenal: Arsenal FC News and Fan Community
9. [LIVE] Arsenal vs West Ham United Premier League 25/26 Full Match
