Arsenal’s narrow 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at the Emirates brought an end to a difficult spell for Mikel Arteta’s side, who had entered the derby under immense pressure. Coming off back-to-back defeats – against Newcastle in the Carabao Cup and Manchester United in the FA Cup – the Gunners knew a win was imperative to reignite their Premier League campaign.
The celebrations after the final whistle reflected the significance of the result. Arteta turned to the home crowd, fists pumping, while Gabriel celebrated by tossing his shirt into the jubilant stands. The win left Arsenal four points behind league leaders Liverpool, albeit having played one more game. Despite their struggles, Arsenal remain within striking distance in the title race, but it’s clear reinforcements are needed.
Struggles in front of goal
Although Arsenal dominated possession, their attacking inefficiency remains a concern. Tottenham opened the scoring in the 25th minute through Son Heung-min, capitalizing on one of their few meaningful attacks. Arsenal equalized late in the first half through an own goal by Dominic Solanke, a stroke of fortune that came from a corner incorrectly awarded after the ball deflected off Leandro Trossard.
Trossard made further amends by scoring the winner just minutes later, his low strike evading Spurs goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky. Yet, Arsenal’s 14 shots only yielded four on target, highlighting the need for a clinical finisher. Opportunities were wasted by Martin Ødegaard, Declan Rice, and Kai Havertz, whose tame header summed up Arsenal’s lack of cutting edge.
With Bukayo Saka sidelined after hamstring surgery and Gabriel Jesus facing a lengthy recovery from a knee injury, Arsenal’s attacking options are limited. Arteta acknowledged the issue, stating, “We are actively looking [for reinforcements].”
Lewis-Skelly shines amid pressure
Amid the attacking woes, 18-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly delivered an outstanding performance. The youngster’s composure and confidence in a high-pressure game earned him a standing ovation when substituted late on. Completing 30 out of 32 passes and showing remarkable physicality, Lewis-Skelly was pivotal in Arsenal’s response after falling behind.
Arteta praised the teenager’s display, describing it as “phenomenal,” while Rice lauded his maturity and fearlessness. “To be playing the way he is at just 18 is ridiculous,” Rice said.
Looking ahead, Arteta emphasized the need for recovery before facing Aston Villa, reiterating that consistency is key. While this derby victory lifted spirits, the Gunners’ hopes for a sustained title challenge may hinge on securing a proven goal scorer in the January transfer window.
