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Arteta's Bold Subs Seal Arsenal Victory Over West Ham

BBC Sport Football •
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Arteta's late substitutions proved decisive in Sunday's 1-0 win, with Mikel Arteta making three tactical gambles that sealed the Premier League title race momentum. The first change at halftime - replacing Ben White with Martin Zubimendi - initially disrupted Arsenal's rhythm, but the second adjustment at halftime - reintroducing William Saliba alongside Calafiori - stabilized the defense. The third and most impactful switch came in the 67th minute: bringing on Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz for Eberechi Eze and Zubimendi, followed by Noni Madueke replacing Bukayo Saka with 10 minutes remaining.

These moves reignited Arsenal's attack, culminating in Odegaard's 86th-minute assist for Leandro Trossard's winner. VAR controversy surrounded Callum Wilson's disallowed equalizer for a toe-on-foul, highlighting inconsistent officiating. Arteta's squad depth shone through, with every starting XI member contributing to victory - a testament to their Premier League title credentials. Odegaard's resurgence was particularly noteworthy, with the Norwegian midfielder dictating play through incisive passing and relentless pressing, proving his status as the team's most vital creative force.