Arsenal secured a vital 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at the Emirates on Wednesday night, with Leandro Trossard firing them to derby triumph.
Mikel Arteta had described the north London derby as “the nicest game of the season to watch,” and while this match may not have been one for purists, neutrals – if they exist in modern football – would have enjoyed the chaotic, drama-filled encounter. The match was full of more errors than moments of brilliance.
Arsenal began the game energetically, putting pressure on their rivals to the sound of a vociferous crowd that Arteta had worked hard to rally throughout the week. However, Tottenham’s Son Heung-min quieted the Emirates in the 25th minute. The Spurs captain latched onto a half-cleared corner, controlling a low volley into a crowded box, which deflected off William Saliba’s toe and past goalkeeper David Raya.
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Despite recent back-to-back cup defeats at home to Newcastle and Manchester United, Arsenal didn’t lose their composure. In fact, they only had to endure Tottenham’s growing uncertainty. Spurs were well aware of Arsenal’s aerial threat, especially from corners, yet Gabriel, who had scored the winner in the reverse fixture, found space at the back post to head in the equalizer in the 40th minute, with the ball going in off Dominic Solanke’s midriff. Just before the break, a series of Tottenham errors allowed Trossard to capitalize and put the Gunners ahead.
Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou, known for his attacking approach, made bold substitutions at halftime with James Maddison and Brennan Johnson coming on in search of an equalizer. However, the changes backfired, exposing Tottenham’s defense rather than strengthening their midfield. Spurs failed to trouble Raya in the second half, and continued to make costly mistakes in possession.
Arteta responded by switching to a formation with two left-backs to counter Tottenham’s attacking pressure. Despite missing several chances, Arsenal held firm, and unlike their recent opponents, Spurs couldn’t take advantage of the Gunners’ wastefulness. As a result, Arsenal claimed a deserved second derby win of the league season.
