VAR saves Arsenal from self-inflicted disaster in Premier League title race

Key Points:

• Arsenal secured a crucial win against West Ham despite controversy over a disallowed late goal after a lengthy VAR review ruled that Pablo impeded goalkeeper David Raya, a decision praised by Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta but criticized by West Ham's Nuno Espirito Santo for inconsistency in officiating.
• The match highlighted Arsenal's self-inflicted challenges, including poor substitutions following Ben White's injury and defensive lapses, yet they managed to maintain control and ultimately capitalize on a set-piece goal by Leandro Trossard.
• West Ham showed resilience and created significant chances, with manager Nuno acknowledging their strong fight despite feeling aggrieved by the refereeing decisions, emphasizing the confusion around what constitutes a foul in crowded penalty area situations.
• Arteta's tactical adjustments, including repositioning Declan Rice to right back and later bringing on Martin Zubimendi and Martin Odegaard, were pivotal in regaining control and securing the win, though Arsenal adopted a highly defensive posture in the final minutes.
• The victory keeps Arsenal on track for the Premier League title with two games remaining, underscoring the team's ability to grind out results even when not at their best, though questions remain about reliance on VAR and fortunate breaks in critical moments.