By Charles Igwe
Arsenal edged closer to Premier League leaders Liverpool, narrowing the gap to four points with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Tottenham in a tense north London derby at the Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners, looking to rebound from back-to-back cup disappointments, dominated much of the match but had to overcome an early setback. Against the run of play, Son Heung-min’s deflected shot off William Saliba wrongfooted David Raya and gave Spurs the lead after 25 minutes. Arsenal’s response was swift, however, as Gabriel rose to meet Declan Rice’s corner five minutes before halftime. The ball glanced off Spurs defender Dominic Solanke for an own goal after a misjudged attempt to claim the cross by goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky.
Just four minutes later, Arsenal took the lead through Leandro Trossard’s low bobbling effort, which Kinsky should have saved. Trossard’s goal lifted the Gunners, but their dominance failed to translate into a larger margin as they struggled to convert opportunities in the second half.
Despite controlling possession and creating numerous chances, Arsenal’s familiar lack of cutting edge in front of goal made for a nervy conclusion. Pedro Porro nearly leveled for Spurs late on, striking the outside of the post from a tight angle, but Arsenal held firm to secure a vital three points.
The relief was palpable at the final whistle as Mikel Arteta and his players celebrated a win that keeps their title hopes alive. Gabriel’s exuberant gesture of throwing his shirt into the crowd symbolized the importance of the victory, especially after recent setbacks in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup.
While Arsenal’s dominance over a lackluster Spurs side was evident, frustrations arose from their tendency to over-elaborate in dangerous areas and an inability to put the game out of reach. The absence of reliable forwards was glaring, with Bukayo Saka sidelined after hamstring surgery and Gabriel Jesus out long-term with a knee injury.
Arteta’s side remains in the hunt, but the January transfer window looms as a critical period. Without reinforcements, particularly in the striker position, sustaining a serious title challenge against a formidable Liverpool side may prove difficult. For now, however, Arsenal can take solace in a derby victory that keeps their pursuit alive.
