Newcastle Defeats West Ham 1-0, Strengthens Champions League Hopes

Newcastle United secured a vital 1-0 victory against West Ham United, thanks to Bruno Guimarães' second-half goal, boosting their hopes for UEFA Champions League qualification. The match, marked by missed opportunities from West Ham, saw Newcastle grow into the game despite a shaky start. West Ham's Tomas Soucek missed a close-range chance early on, while Newcastle's Harvey Barnes tested goalkeeper Alphonse Areola multiple times before Guimarães found the net. This win positions Newcastle sixth in the Premier League, just behind Manchester City, as they prepare for a crucial Carabao Cup final against Liverpool. Manager Eddie Howe noted the importance of the victory amidst injury challenges and highlighted the team's need for improvement ahead of the final. West Ham remains in a precarious position, unable to capitalize on the chance to secure three consecutive league wins.