Why VAR Disallowed Callum Wilson's 95th Minute Goal for West Ham vs Arsenal
- Arsenal held on for a huge 1-0 win over West Ham United FC after VAR ruled out a late equaliser
- Leandro Trossard scored the winning goal as Arsenal strengthened their Premier League title hopes
- A Ghanaian sports pundit said Arsenal’s fighting spirit against West Ham showed why they can win the league
West Ham United were denied a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser by VAR as Arsenal held on for a crucial 1-0 victory to move closer to the Premier League title.
Callum Wilson looked to have rescued an important point for West Ham in their battle against relegation when he fired home after a chaotic goalmouth scramble following a corner from the right side.
Source: Getty Images
The striker’s half-volley was blocked beyond the line by Declan Rice, with the ball clearly crossing over before referee Chris Kavanagh awarded the goal.
However, Arsenal players immediately protested over an incident involving goalkeeper David Raya and West Ham substitute Pablo Fornals inside the six-yard box.
Amid a crowded penalty area, Raya appeared to be held by the Brazilian midfielder while attempting to collect the initial cross into the area.
After reviewing multiple camera angles, VAR official Darren England instructed Kavanagh to review the incident on the pitchside monitor.
Following discussions between the officials, Kavanagh eventually ruled out the goal and awarded a free kick to Arsenal.
“After review, West Ham No 19 commits a foul on the goalkeeper,” the referee announced. “Final decision: direct free kick.”
Moments later, the final whistle was blown on what could prove to be a decisive day at both ends of the table, with Leandro Trossard’s goal securing all three points for Arsenal and keeping their title hopes firmly in their own hands.
Why Arsenal could win the Premier League
Ghanaian sports pundit based in the UK Kofi Esikyire believes the way Arsenal battled to secure a gritty victory against West Ham is a strong indication that Mikel Arteta’s side are ready to win the Premier League title.
“They showed the mentality of champions,” Esikyire told YEN.com.gh. “These are the kinds of matches title-winning teams always find a way to survive.”
“Arsenal didn’t play perfect football, but they fought for every ball and defended like their season depended on it. That tells you a lot about their mindset.”
According to him, the late VAR drama and the team’s ability to remain composed under pressure could become one of the defining moments of the title race.
“When you survive moments like that, it gives players belief,” he explained. “Sometimes winning the league is not about beautiful football every week — it’s about grinding out results when everything is against you.”
Premier League make statement after VAR decision
The Premier League confirmed the decision via X:
"After VAR review, the referee overturned the original decision of goal to West Ham United. Referee announcement: 'After review, West Ham number 19 commits a foul on the goalkeeper. Final decision is direct free kick."
Source: YEN.com.gh
