By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Kenya, January 24, 2026 -West Ham United moved a step closer to safety in the Premier League with a strong 3-1 victory over Sunderland at the London Stadium on Saturday. The result gives the Hammers momentum in their battle to escape the relegation zone, keeping alive hopes of staying in England’s top flight this season.
West Ham took control early and were three goals to the good by halftime. Crysencio Summerville opened the scoring with a well-taken header in the 14th minute. Jarrod Bowen then converted a penalty in the 28th minute to double the lead for the hosts. Mateus Fernandes put the match beyond doubt just before the break with a wonderful long-range strike that beat the Sunderland keeper and lifted the home crowd.
In the second half, Sunderland managed a consolation goal through Brian Brobbey in the 66th minute, but it was not enough to change the course of the game. The visitors struggled to keep up with West Ham’s intensity, especially in attack, and were unable to build sustained pressure after going behind.
This win marked back-to-back victories for West Ham in the Premier League, a rare moment of consistency in a season where survival has been far from certain. Before this weekend, the Hammers had not enjoyed consecutive league wins since early in the campaign, highlighting how important this run is for manager Nuno Espírito Santo and his squad.
The three points lift West Ham to 18th in the table and bring them within two points of 17th-placed Nottingham Forest. With only a small gap between the teams around the relegation zone, every result matters. A positive run of form now could be the difference that keeps West Ham in the Premier League beyond this season.
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Sunderland, for their part, remain within the top half for now but will be disappointed with how they performed in London. The Black Cats have shown they can compete this season, but defensive lapses and missed opportunities at key moments cost them in this match.
Looking ahead, West Ham will need to build on this performance if they want to cement their place in the top flight. The momentum they have gained could be vital as they prepare to face other teams fighting for survival. Sunderland likewise must regroup quickly to get back to winning ways and maintain their solid position in the league.
