Arsenal's Premier League title dreams are alive and well after a dramatic 1-0 victory over West Ham, but not without a heavy dose of controversy that has left the football world buzzing. In a tense London derby at the London Stadium, Mikel Arteta's side showed the grit and determination of champions, grinding out a result that could define their season.
The breakthrough came seven minutes from time when Leandro Trossard's strike took a fortunate deflection, leaving West Ham keeper Alphonse Areola with no chance. It was a moment of quality from a player who has been a key contributor for the Gunners this season, and it looked to have sealed three precious points.
But the drama was far from over. Deep into stoppage time, chaos erupted as Callum Wilson poked home from close range after David Raya had fumbled a cross. The stadium erupted, West Ham players celebrated, and Arsenal hearts sank—until referee Chris Kavanagh and the VAR officials intervened.
After an agonizingly long review, the goal was disallowed for a foul by West Ham's Pablo on Raya. While the contact was minimal, the officials deemed it enough to deny the Hammers a share of the spoils. The decision sparked furious reactions from West Ham supporters and players alike, while Arteta could be seen clenching his fists in sheer relief on the sidelines.
This victory puts Arsenal five points clear of Manchester City, who had kept the pressure on with a comfortable 3-0 win over Brentford the day before. The title race is far from over—City can close the gap to just two points if they win their game in hand against Crystal Palace on Wednesday. But the Gunners now control their own destiny: win their final two matches against Burnley and Crystal Palace, and the trophy is theirs.
What makes this run so special is the character this Arsenal team is showing. For years, questions have been asked about their mental toughness, but they are answering them emphatically. This victory came just days after they booked their place in the Champions League final with a memorable win over Atletico Madrid, setting up a showdown with Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest on May 30.
The prospect of winning both the Premier League and the Champions League would be the crowning achievement in the club's 139-year history. Thierry Henry, a legend from the "Invincibles" era that last brought the title to north London in 2003-04, recently dubbed this squad the "unforgettables" if they can pull off the double. With each passing game, that prophecy feels closer to becoming reality.