Liverpool showcased a remarkable transformation in their set-piece prowess during a commanding 5-2 home victory over West Ham United, a result that bolsters their push for Champions League qualification. The match, played on Saturday 28 February 2026, saw three first-half goals originate from corners, highlighting a dramatic turnaround from earlier struggles.
Historic First-Half Display
Hugo Ekitike, Virgil van Dijk, and Alexis Mac Allister all found the net from corners in the opening 45 minutes, making Liverpool only the second team in Premier League history to achieve this feat, following Manchester United in 2016. This explosive start set the tone for a dominant performance, with the team's xG for the first half recorded at just 0.7, underscoring the efficiency of their set-piece execution.
Turning the Tide
Under manager Arne Slot, Liverpool had endured the worst set-piece balance in the league earlier this season, leading to the dismissal of coach Aaron Briggs. However, since New Year's Day, they have scored nine set-piece goals while conceding only three, the best record of any top-flight team during this period. Slot had previously attributed their early-season woes to misfortune, but the recent data suggests a significant tactical improvement.
Securing the Win
Cody Gakpo added to the scoreline with his first league goal in eight matches, easing any lingering nerves. Although West Ham threatened a comeback with goals from Tomas Soucek and Taty Castellanos, Axel Disasi's late strike from Jeremie Frimpong's cross sealed the 5-2 win. This result halts West Ham's recent revival, in which they had taken 11 points from their last 18 available.
League Implications
The victory moves Liverpool level on points with fourth-placed Manchester United, narrowing the goal difference gap to just one. This positions them strongly in the race for a Champions League spot, demonstrating how their set-piece resurgence has become a cornerstone of their campaign. The team's ability to convert dead-ball situations has evolved from a weakness into a key strength, potentially defining their season's outcome.
