The North London Derby delivered on its promise of intense rivalry, with Arsenal edging out Tottenham 2-1 in a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats. A composed finish from Leandro Trossard and a clinical header from Solanke ensured victory for the Gunners, despite Spurs’ spirited fightback led by Son Heung-min. Arsenal’s ability to dominate key moments proved decisive.

Important Stats Breakdown

Arsenal registered 15 shots compared to Tottenham’s 8, highlighting their attacking intent. The Gunners also accumulated a significantly higher xG of 2.57 against Spurs’ 0.93, reflecting their superior shot quality. Arsenal’s seven blocked shots and 26 dribbles further illustrated their aggressive approach in breaking down Tottenham’s defense.

Match Momentum

The momentum swung heavily in Arsenal’s favor, particularly after they found their rhythm post-Trossard’s goal in the 44th minute. Spurs had a brief resurgence after Son’s early strike, but Arsenal consistently pushed forward, keeping Spurs pinned in their own half for much of the second half.

Shots and Goals

Arsenal’s shot map reveals their dominance in Tottenham’s penalty area, with two goals scored from close range and multiple high-quality chances.

Tottenham, meanwhile, managed only two shots on target, one of which was Son’s opportunistic early goal. Spurs’ reliance on speculative efforts from outside the box limited their attacking output.

Possession Tactics

Arsenal’s pass map shows a strong emphasis on central progression, with Ødegaard, Rice, and Partey orchestrating play. Arsenal’s buildup often transitioned through wide areas, utilizing Sterling and Trossard’s pace to create overloads.

Spurs’ pass map highlights a more fragmented structure, relying heavily on Bissouma and Kulusevski to link midfield and attack. Their lack of consistent passing lanes limited their ability to sustain pressure on Arsenal.

Final Thoughts

The derby showcased Arsenal’s tactical superiority and clinical finishing, while Tottenham’s disjointed attacking play left them chasing the game. For Arsenal, it’s a statement win in their top-four push; for Spurs, it’s another frustrating night in their hunt for consistency.