Arsenal earned a hard-fought 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur in a pulsating North London derby at the Emirates.
The game started as many expected, with Arsenal asserting their dominance from the opening whistle.
Spurs struggled to cope with the hosts’ intensity, with Leandro Trossard and Martin Odegaard constantly causing problems. But despite Arsenal’s early pressure and plenty of corners, it was Tottenham who struck first.
In the 25th minute Heung-Min Son broke the deadlock. After a failed Arsenal clearance, the Spurs captain pounced on the loose ball and unleashed a wrong-footed deflection off goalkeeper David Raya.
It was Sean’s sixth league goal of the season and a reminder of his clinical superiority in big games.
The lead, however, was short-lived. Arsenal equalized just 15 minutes later after a set piece.
Gabriel rose high to meet Odegard’s corner and his header deflected off Dominic Solanke and into the back of the net for an own goal.
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The Emirates erupted and the momentum swung in the Gunners’ favour.
Moments later, Arsenal completed the turnaround. A quick counter attack saw Odegaard pick out Trossard with a perfectly weighted pass down the left side.
The Belgian broke into the box and unleashed a low, powerful strike that went past young Spurs goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky into the bottom corner.
The second half saw Tottenham make attacking changes, bringing on James Maddison and Brennan Johnson in an attempt to get back into the game.
Despite enjoying more possession as the game progressed, Spurs struggled to create clear-cut chances.
Their best chance came late on when Pedro Porro’s thunderous effort from a tight angle hit the outside of the post after two seconds.
Arsenal remained dangerous on the counter and forced Kinski into some impressive saves to keep the scoreline respectable.
Mikel Arteta’s side managed the latter stages expertly, with experienced substitutes Oleksandr Zinchenko and Mikel Merino adding control.
The final whistle confirmed a vital three points for the Gunners, who are four points clear of Premier League leaders Liverpool.
For Spurs, it was another disappointing outing at the Emirates, Ange Postecoglou’s side showing promise but ultimately undone by defensive mistakes and a lack of cutting edge in the final third.
