Newcastle Draw Level with City After Guimaraes’ Goal Defeats West Ham

Newcastle United enhanced their aspirations for a UEFA Champions League spot, with Bruno Guimarães netting the decisive goal in a 1-0 victory over West Ham United in the Premier League.

Entering the match on the back of consecutive wins without conceding, West Ham were eager to continue their positive momentum.

The hosts began aggressively against Eddie Howe’s squad and almost took an early lead just after the kick-off; however, Tomas Soucek squandered the opportunity by firing over the bar from close range.

Relieved by that first-minute escape, the Magpies gradually found their rhythm as the first half wore on, with Harvey Barnes having two shots brilliantly saved by Alphonse Areola in quick succession.

As half-time approached, both teams were still searching for a breakthrough, although clear chances remained few and far between. Mohammed Kudus posed a threat on the counter but was well contained by Kieran Trippier.

The lack of activity in the attacking zones continued after the break, though Areola had to be alert to superbly save a poorly executed clearance from Max Kilman.

Newcastle eventually made the breakthrough just after the hour mark, with Barnes delivering a teasing cross that was deftly turned home by Guimarães.

West Ham sought an immediate response and felt aggrieved not to be awarded a penalty when Guimarães collided with Jarrod Bowen in the box, stirring frustration among the home supporters.

With the game delicately poised heading into the final ten minutes, Graham Potter’s team pushed hard for an equaliser. However, it was Newcastle who looked more dangerous, as they managed the closing stages with poise, securing vital points ahead of their Carabao Cup final against Liverpool on Sunday. West Ham, meanwhile, remained in 16th place after failing to secure three consecutive Premier League victories for the first time since 2023.