Arsenal vs Tottenham Preview
- Draw or Arsenal win
- Over 2.5 goals
The latest edition of the North London derby pits title-chasing Arsenal against a Tottenham side looking to salvage their season. With both teams embroiled in differing battles, this clash at the Emirates Stadium promises intensity, drama, and plenty of talking points.
Arsenal: Defending Their Fortress
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal remain the only Premier League club yet to lose at home this season (W6, D3).
Their resilience at the Emirates is highlighted by four consecutive Premier League clean sheets on home soil (W3, D1).
However, attacking limitations were evident in their FA Cup penalty loss to Manchester United over the weekend, where they failed to break down a well-organised defence.
Arsenal have a psychological edge in this fixture, boasting a 13-game unbeaten home record in league matches against Spurs (W8, D5) and a 1-0 victory in the reverse fixture earlier this season. With Liverpool maintaining their lead at the top of the table, the Gunners need to win to stay within striking distance.
Key Player to Watch
Gabriel Magalhães: The Brazilian defender has been a key figure at both ends of the pitch, scoring five times this season, including the winner in the reverse fixture.
Tottenham: Searching for Consistency
Tottenham’s season has been marked by inconsistency, and Ange Postecoglou’s side face another uphill task at the Emirates.
They’ve managed just two wins in their last eight competitive away games against top-flight opposition (D1, L5) and needed extra time to overcome non-league Tamworth in the FA Cup on Sunday.
Despite these challenges, recent wins in both domestic cup competitions have offered glimpses of promise. Postecoglou may cautiously reintroduce Richarlison, though Spurs will heavily rely on Son Heung-min to deliver in their most challenging away game of the season.
Key Player to Watch
Son Heung-min: The Spurs captain has scored in four of his last seven appearances against Arsenal and will be key to unlocking a well-organised Gunners defence.
Head-to-Head Record
- Arsenal are unbeaten in their last 13 home Premier League games against Spurs (W8, D5).
- The reverse fixture earlier this season ended in a 1-0 victory for Arsenal.
- Spurs have not won a league match at the Emirates since 2010.
Tactical Insights and Key Battles
Arsenal’s Defence vs Spurs’ Attack
Arsenal’s defensive solidity at home will be tested by the dynamic movement of Son and Kulusevski. Gabriel and Saliba must remain disciplined to deny space in behind.
Midfield Control
The midfield battle between Arsenal’s Rice and Odegaard and Spurs’ Bissouma and Maddison will be pivotal. Arsenal will look to dominate possession, while Spurs aim to transition quickly through Maddison’s creativity.
Set-Pieces
With Gabriel Magalhães a threat from corners and free kicks, Spurs must stay alert defensively, particularly given Arsenal’s proficiency in set-piece situations.
Prediction: Gunners to Extend Their Dominance
Arsenal’s strong home form and Tottenham’s inconsistent away record suggest the Gunners are well-positioned to take all three points. While Spurs may pose a threat on the counter, Arsenal’s defensive organisation and attacking firepower should see them through.
Predicted Score: Arsenal 2-1 Tottenham
Final Thoughts
The North London derby is always a spectacle, but with Arsenal chasing the title and Spurs battling for relevance, the stakes are higher than ever. Expect a fiercely contested game with moments of brilliance and plenty of passion.
For more info on this game, you may also visit:
Arsenal v Spurs, 2024/25 | Premier League