In a stunning display of attacking prowess, Dominic Calvert-Lewin delivered a powerful message to England manager Gareth Southgate just hours before the national squad announcement. The Everton striker’s magnificent hat-trick propelled the Toffees to a commanding 4-1 victory over West Ham United, securing their place in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals and maintaining their perfect start to the season.
The atmosphere at Goodison Park crackled with anticipation as Everton fans witnessed their team’s fifth consecutive victory across all competitions. This comprehensive performance not only demonstrated Everton’s growing credentials as serious cup contenders but also highlighted the remarkable transformation under Carlo Ancelotti’s guidance.
Clinical Finishing Defines Everton’s Dominance
The 23-year-old sensation opened the scoring just 11 minutes into the match, displaying the confidence of a striker at the peak of his powers. Michael Keane initiated the move with unexpected flair, spinning away from Manuel Lanzini before delivering a perfectly weighted chip that bypassed the West Ham defense. Calvert-Lewin‘s first touch was impeccable, followed by a composed finish past goalkeeper Darren Randolph that showcased his growing maturity in front of goal.
Despite Everton’s first-half dominance, West Ham emerged from the break with immediate purpose. Just 25 seconds into the second period, Robert Snodgrass equalized with a beautifully curved effort from the edge of the area after good work from Anderson. The goal momentarily silenced the home crowd and suggested a potential shift in momentum.
Resilience and Response: Hallmarks of Ancelotti’s Everton
The equalizer proved only a temporary setback for an Everton side growing in confidence under their Italian manager. Richarlison, who had already struck the post earlier, restored Everton’s lead in the 56th minute with a shot that took a significant deflection off Declan Rice before beating Randolph. The Brazilian’s contribution, however, came at a cost as he hobbled off shortly after with an ankle injury, replaced by Alex Iwobi.
West Ham threatened to level again when Sebastien Haller produced an acrobatic effort that forced an excellent save from Jordan Pickford with 15 minutes remaining. However, Calvert-Lewin would ultimately put the result beyond doubt, displaying his predatory instincts by reacting quickest when Iwobi’s shot struck the post, bundling home from close range to make it 3-1 with 12 minutes remaining.
The England hopeful completed his hat-trick in style, side-footing home from Gylfi Sigurdsson’s precise pass to cap a memorable individual performance. This marked his second hat-trick of the season, taking his tally to an impressive eight goals from just five appearances.
Robert Snodgrass briefly brought West Ham level with a beautifully taken goal early in the second half, but the Hammers ultimately couldn’t contain Everton’s attacking firepower
Tactical Analysis: What Makes This Everton Side Different
According to Krikya football analyst Michael Donovan, “Ancelotti has implemented a system that perfectly utilizes Calvert-Lewin‘s strengths. The service from James Rodríguez, who has created 15 chances in just four appearances, combined with the midfield stability provided by Allan, has transformed Everton into a genuinely formidable attacking unit.”
The statistics support this assessment. Everton have won their first six competitive games of a season for the first time since 1938-39, a remarkable achievement that underscores the progress made under Ancelotti’s stewardship. The tactical flexibility and mental resilience shown in responding immediately to West Ham’s equalizer speaks volumes about the changing mentality at the club.
England Implications and Future Prospects
With Southgate naming his England squad for upcoming matches against Wales, Belgium, and Denmark, Calvert-Lewin‘s timing could hardly be better. His aerial prowess, improved finishing, and growing confidence make him a compelling option for the national team, particularly with Harry Kane’s occasional fitness concerns.
From a West Ham perspective, assistant manager Alan Irvine acknowledged the challenge of missing David Moyes, who continues to self-isolate. “We have replacements for every player in every position, but nobody has a replacement for a manager,” Irvine noted, highlighting the organizational difficulties faced in Moyes’ absence.
Looking Ahead: Premier League Challenges Await
Everton now turn their attention to maintaining their perfect Premier League start when they host Brighton at Goodison Park on Saturday afternoon. The potential absence of Richarlison, Allan, and Jonjoe Kenny through injury presents Ancelotti with his first significant selection challenge of the season.
West Ham face an equally daunting task, traveling to face league leaders Leicester City on Sunday. The Hammers will need to quickly regroup from this cup exit and refocus on their Premier League campaign.
This performance not only cemented Everton’s status as serious cup contenders but also announced their arrival as potential top-four challengers. The combination of Calvert-Lewin’s clinical finishing, Rodríguez’s creativity, and Ancelotti’s tactical acumen has created a perfect storm at Goodison Park. As the Carabao Cup quarter-final draw approaches, Everton will undoubtedly be among the most feared names in the pot.
What did you make of Everton’s performance and Calvert-Lewin’s England credentials? Share your thoughts in the comments below and don’t forget to follow Krikya for more in-depth analysis of the Premier League’s emerging storylines.
