Arsenal narrowly avoided a major scare as Leandro Trossard’s late goal sealed a dramatic 1-0 victory over West Ham United at the London Stadium on Sunday. The win restored Arsenal’s five-point lead in the Premier League title race.

Victory in the Final Moments

The visitors were under immense pressure during the match, but Trossard capitalized on a low shot from Martin Odegaard’s pass in the 83rd minute, sparking wild celebrations among Arsenal fans and disappointment for the home side.

Arsenal’s relief was short-lived, as West Ham substitute Callum Wilson had a potential equalizer disallowed for a foul in deep stoppage time; the decision came after a lengthy video assistant referee (VAR) review, adding to the tension in the stadium.

Path to the Title

The win moves Arsenal one step closer to securing their first Premier League title since 2004. If they win their remaining two games—against Burnley at home and Crystal Palace away,the club will be crowned champions on the final day of the season.

Arsenal currently has 79 points from 36 matches, while Manchester City, who still have a game in hand, are on 74 points, and the race remains tightly contested, with both teams vying for the top spot.

For West Ham. The defeat was a devastating blow in their fight against relegation; the loss leaves them four points behind the safety zone, with just two games remaining. If Tottenham Hotspur beats Leeds United on Monday, West Ham’s margin from safety will widen further.

Controversial VAR Decision

The stoppage-time incident. Described by Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville as the “biggest VAR call in the history of the Premier League,” could have serious implications for West Ham. They put in a gritty performance and may have felt they deserved a point for their efforts.

With time almost up and West Ham goalkeeper Mads Hermansen out for a corner, Wilson fired a shot that went over the line. The goal initially appeared to be a dramatic equalizer, but the VAR flagged a possible foul by West Ham substitute Pablo on Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.

After a tense review, referee Chris Kavanagh disallowed the goal, and Arsenal could finally exhale in relief. West Ham fans, along with those of Manchester City, were left stunned by the decision, as the stadium fell silent after the announcement.