Arsenal, the current Premier League leaders, endured a second-half scare against Tottenham but managed to secure a 3-2 victory in the north London derby, solidifying their position at the top. Derbies always bring about unexpected twists, and this match was no different.
The Gunners surged to a 3-0 lead by halftime, but a costly error by David Raya gifted Spurs a goal, allowing them a chance to claw back into the game. With Declan Rice conceding a penalty as the match approached added time, both Mikel Arteta and fans were left on edge.
An own goal from Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, along with strikes from Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz, gave Arsenal control in the first half. Despite Spurs’ comeback efforts through Cristian Romero’s goal and a Son Heung-min penalty, the visitors secured all three points.
With this win, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal extended their lead over second-placed champions Manchester City, who have two games in hand. Moreover, Arsenal’s victory today surely ends any faint hope Liverpool had of getting back into the title race.
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Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta to Sky Sports:
“It’s a really tough place to come. Unbelievable atmosphere and a great team. We were super efficient in the first half, we were really well organised.
“We started the second half really well, in total control of the game, could have scored the fourth one. Then an individual error, and you can feel it, it’s game on. From there, you have to manage the game and have a bit of luck at times.
“We conceded the second one, again with a mistake that is not very usual. And then, pray! Defend your box. They threw everything. Romero was playing as a striker for the last 25-30 minutes and anything can happen.
“To win big things, you have to go through these moments. Super-happy because it’s a day to be proud, a day that means so much to our supporters. Hopefully they can enjoy a beautiful evening.”
Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou to Sky Sports:
“From our perspective, we allowed them way too easy access to our goal. They got there three or four times and scored three goals in the first half. It’s not acceptable at this level and we paid a price for it against a very good team.
“We showed resilience and fought back but we had to because there was no other choice. We couldn’t come out in the second half and not give our supporters a little bit of hope.
“We’re still not as resilient as we can be, particularly in those kinds of moments [in the first half] where there are transitions or set-pieces.”