Divine Mukasa’s first-half goal was enough for West Ham United to claim a significant 1-0 victory away to Championship leaders Swansea City. The result ends Swansea’s unbeaten home record dating back to April and lifts the Hammers into second place, just one point off the top.
Mukasa struck in the 34th minute, finishing a move that began when Marko Stamenic was dispossessed. Pablo quickly released Mohamadou Kante, who showed impressive composure on the by-line to pick out Mukasa for a simple finish. It was the first shot of a cagey contest and the young forward’s third goal of the season.
The goal came against a Swansea defence that had conceded only twice at home all season. The hosts, who had taken 23 points from their opening ten games for their best start in over a century, pushed hard for an equaliser. Ben Cabango came closest, swivelling to strike the underside of the crossbar from a Jay Fulton free-kick, while Adam Idah and Ronaldo saw efforts deflected wide.
West Ham goalkeeper Lawrence Vigouroux was called into action four minutes after the break, making a full-length stop to deny Jarrod Bowen. He later produced two excellent saves to keep out Pablo and Bowen again as the visitors managed the game. Swansea substitute Stephen Eustaquio fired off target in the closing stages, and Ronald wasted a great chance in stoppage time.
Nuno praises momentum
Manager Nuno Espirito Santo highlighted the importance of building on recent form. “We wanted not only to keep the momentum, but to build on it,” he said after the match. He praised his team’s commitment and unity in a demanding week that also included a 6-0 win at Lincoln.
Swansea boss Vitor Matos acknowledged the fine margins. “It was a really tight game and West Ham scored,” he said. “They are an organised team who defends well, and it is hard to break them and push them back.”
The win extends West Ham’s unbeaten league run to nine games since a mid-August loss to Charlton. They now sit second in the standings with 22 points from 11 matches, claiming the division's best attack with 30 goals scored. Jarrod Bowen remains their top scorer this campaign with six.
Nuno Espirito Santo's side will look to continue their momentum when they host Southampton next Saturday. The Saints, currently seventh, have scored 17 goals so far this season. Victory at the London Stadium could see West Ham United go top of the Championship for the first time this season.
First reported at Sky Sports
