Arsenal took a major step toward winning their first Premier League title in more than two decades after a controversial VAR decision helped secure a tense 1-0 victory over West Ham United on Sunday.
A late goal from Leandro Trossard appeared to be enough for Arsenal before the match erupted into drama deep into stoppage time at the London Stadium.
West Ham thought they had rescued a crucial equaliser when Callum Wilson scored after Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya dropped the ball inside his penalty area.
However, celebrations were cut short after VAR official Darren England advised referee Chris Kavanagh to review the incident for a possible foul on Raya by defender Pablo during the build-up.
Following a lengthy review at the pitch side monitor, Kavanagh ruled that Raya had been impeded and disallowed the goal, prompting wild celebrations from Arsenal players and supporters while West Ham reacted with frustration.
The victory leaves Arsenal five points clear of Manchester City at the top of the table with two matches remaining.
Mikel Arteta’s side can secure the Premier League title if they win their remaining fixtures against Burnley and Crystal Palace.
Arsenal could even be crowned champions earlier should Manchester City fail to win their game in hand against Palace later this week.
Arteta praised the officials for making what he described as a difficult but correct decision.
“It was a brave call,” Arteta told reporters. “In moments like that, with so much pressure, the referee had to make the right decision. From our view, it was clearly a foul.”
West Ham manager Nuno Espírito Santo disagreed with the outcome and questioned the consistency of VAR decisions in the Premier League.
“We are disappointed because situations like this are interpreted differently every week,” Nuno said. “There is confusion around what is a foul and what is not.”
The incident immediately reignited debate around VAR, which has faced criticism from players, managers and supporters since its introduction into English football.
Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville called it one of the biggest VAR moments in Premier League history, while backing the referee’s final decision.
For Arsenal, the result could prove decisive in the title race as they move within touching distance of ending a 22-year wait for the league crown.
