In a match that was initially fragmented and scrappy, Arsenal managed to withstand the aggression of Tottenham Hotspur FC and ultimately overcome their rivals. Here are the three takeaways from this latest North London Derby.
Eberechi Eze delivers his statement performance
A hat trick in the first meeting and a brace in the return leg. Five goals against Tottenham this season for an Eze who could have been wearing the Spurs shirt last summer. But beyond the goals, it was his positioning that stood out.
Indeed, he operated more around Viktor Gyökeres, which allowed Arsenal to play in a more direct manner. By leaving much of the buildup responsibility to the wide players, Arsenal were able to generate crosses, with the English playmaker arriving to collect second balls.
At times, it almost looked as if Arsenal were playing in a 4-4-2 system, pairing Eze with Gyökeres up front. The formula paid off, with both attackers scoring twice and providing a spark that could revitalize the Gunners’ struggling offense in recent weeks.
Arsenal win despite vulnerability
However, while the attack offers signs of promise, the defense continues to raise concerns and show vulnerability. With a system built on control, any team that brings physical intensity can trouble passive Gunners — and that was evident on the equalizer from Randal Kolo Muani.
Declan Rice was slow to clear the ball, and Gabriel Magalhães mishandled the intervention, allowing the French striker to score. Similar to the physical pressure applied by Wolves or Manchester United FC in recent weeks, Arsenal’s emphasis on control can sometimes drift into passivity — something they will need to address.
Igor Tudor has work to do
Appointed last week, just days before the match, Croatian coach Igor Tudor was able to grasp the scale of the challenge awaiting him at Tottenham. While the players’ spirit was noticeable in the first half, the lack of quality and ongoing injuries limited Spurs’ hopes, forcing them to endure wave after wave from the Gunners and ultimately concede a fairly heavy defeat.
Tottenham have been struggling for years, and to avoid the anxiety of a season-ending relegation battle, they will need to raise their level and rely on the imminent returns of key figures such as Cristian Romero and Mohammed Kudus.