Liverpool's 5-2 win over West Ham still falls short of elite standard

Liverpool’s 5-2 triumph over West Ham was a statement on the scoreline, yet the match’s xG of 1.75 versus West Ham’s 1.84 shows it was more opportunistic than dominant. Three first‑half goals from corners turned a potentially tense game into a comfortable win, but the underlying metrics reveal persistent defensive frailties and a midfield that still struggles to maintain balance.

Arne Slot’s shift from a romantic, continental‑style approach to a pragmatic set‑piece focus has paid dividends in the form of nine goals from dead‑balls since January. However, the team’s defensive structure remains vulnerable in transition, and the lack of a natural defensive midfielder continues to expose gaps that opponents can exploit.