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Arsenal edged closer to Premier League leaders Liverpool, securing a 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in a tense north London derby at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners are now just four points behind Liverpool, though they have played one game more than the league leaders.
Desperate to bounce back after their recent cup disappointments — a Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg defeat to Newcastle and an FA Cup third-round exit to Manchester United on penalties — Arsenal delivered a crucial result to stay in the title race.
Match Highlights
Despite Arsenal’s dominance in the early stages, Spurs took a surprise lead in the 25th minute. Son Heung-min’s shot deflected off William Saliba and wrong-footed goalkeeper David Raya, giving the visitors an unlikely advantage.
The Gunners responded five minutes before halftime, with Gabriel rising to meet Declan Rice’s corner. Spurs goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky failed to clear the ball, which ultimately deflected off Dominic Solanke for an own goal to level the score.
Arsenal struck again just four minutes later when Leandro Trossard’s low, bobbling shot found the back of the net. Kinsky’s error proved costly, as the goalkeeper failed to make what should have been a routine save.
Second-Half Dominance but No Cutting Edge
Mikel Arteta’s side controlled much of the second half but struggled to extend their lead. Their inability to convert chances into goals left the game precariously poised, and Spurs nearly equalized in the dying moments when Pedro Porro struck the outside of the post from a tight angle.
Relief swept through the Emirates when the final whistle blew, as Arsenal held on for a vital win that keeps their title hopes alive.
Lingering Concerns for Arsenal
While the victory was crucial, the match highlighted Arsenal’s ongoing struggles in attack. The absence of reliable forwards is evident, with Bukayo Saka sidelined after hamstring surgery and Gabriel Jesus out long-term with a knee injury. The Gunners’ lack of clinical finishing in dangerous areas drew frustration from fans throughout the game.
Manager Mikel Arteta faces pressure to strengthen his squad in the January transfer window to sustain their title challenge against a formidable Liverpool side.
Arsenal’s next challenge will be maintaining consistency in a tightly contested title race. With Liverpool setting the pace, Arteta must address the squad’s attacking deficiencies to keep Arsenal in contention.