Chelsea delivered a commanding performance on Sunday, thrashing West Ham 5-0 in the Premier League and significantly boosting their chances of European football next season. This resounding victory propels them into seventh place in the table, overtaking Manchester United, who have a game in hand.
**Young Talents Shine**
The Blues’ youthful attackers stole the show in the demolition. Cole Palmer, a rising star in his debut season at the club, broke the deadlock in the 15th minute. He seized on a loose ball from a Noni Madueke cross and calmly slotted it past West Ham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola. Captain Conor Gallagher doubled the lead 15 minutes later, capitalizing on another defensive lapse by the Hammers to find the back of the net.
**Madueke: Creativity and Precision**
Madueke wasn’t just a creator on the day; he also demonstrated his scoring ability. The winger, who troubled the West Ham defence with his speed, skill, and directness, got on the scoresheet just before halftime. He leapt superbly to head home a corner from Mykhailo Mudryk after a clever flick-on from the experienced Thiago Silva.
**Jackson Nets Twice**
The second half saw Chelsea add three more goals. Shortly after the break, Madueke exhibited his vision and composure, controlling a long ball from Benoit Badiashile and setting up Nicolas Jackson for an easy finish. Jackson then secured his brace in the 80th minute, latching onto a long pass from Moises Caicedo and slotting home after a VAR check confirmed he was onside.
**Pochettino’s Side Gathers Momentum**
This dominant win marks Chelsea’s second consecutive league victory, following their impressive 2-0 win over Tottenham just three days prior. Manager Mauricio Pochettino expressed his satisfaction with his team’s display, praising their ability to build on the momentum from the previous match. He lauded their attacking prowess and clinical finishing, attributing their recent upturn in form to renewed focus and determination.
**West Ham’s Woes Continue**
Despite showing flashes of attacking intent, with Jarrod Bowen hitting the woodwork three times and Emerson forcing a save early in the second half, West Ham’s defensive lapses proved costly. David Moyes’ side remains without a win in their last six games across all competitions, sparking speculation about the manager’s future. The Hammers’ once-solid defence, a key factor in their success last season, has become leaky, while their previously potent attack has faltered.