Sometimes, a win is not just about points, but also a powerful mental boost when the pressure is on. The recent North London Derby was a perfect example of that, as Arsenal not only won but also passed an “attitude test” that coach Mikel Arteta stressed was necessary to affirm the character of the team.
The Gunners have been heavily criticised ahead of the game after a disappointing run of form in three different competitions, losing to Newcastle (League Cup), Man United (FA Cup) and drawing with Brighton (Premier League). Another defeat to their city rivals would make things worse for Arsenal.
In fact, the Emirates team had a difficult start when Tottenham had Son Heung-min's opening goal. However, Arsenal refused to give up, they understood the pressure but did not let it drown their fighting spirit. Instead, Mikel Arteta's army chose to stand up, push back the difficulties and take advantage of this match as an opportunity to regain confidence.
“After two cup defeats, we had to play the biggest game of the season in such bad form. We know what we are made of, how brave we are and we really only care about the result or the performance. Arsenal fought with and without the ball.
These boys want more. They want to be challenged, they want to face difficult questions and answer them with their performance on the pitch. With the tension of the North London Derby, we deserve recognition" - Mikel Arteta shared.
Arsenal not only won, but also found joy and confidence in their play. Small but meaningful moments on the pitch showed this, such as Gabriel Magalhaes's excited celebration after a good defense; goalkeeper David Raya confidently catching the ball with one hand; or young talent Myles Lewis-Skelly soaking up the excitement of the match.
These are positive signs, showing that the Gunners are reconnecting with the fighting spirit that helped them thrive in previous seasons. The victory over Spurs not only brought Arsenal to 2nd place in the rankings but also shortened the gap with Liverpool to 4 points.
Arsenal’s first goal came from Gabriel’s powerful aerial play after an unpredictable corner. But what was more remarkable was how they scored the second goal, with a quick, fluid and inspired combination. Thomas Partey stole the ball from his opponent, passed it quickly to Martin Odegaard, who needed just one touch to open the path for Leandro Trossard to finish. This was Arsenal at their best, with the ability to attack with speed, creativity and efficiency.
Another standout performer was Declan Rice, who gave his all at both ends of the pitch. Despite a busy schedule, the England midfielder showed what he called “a fire in him” against Tottenham.
While this victory is a big boost, Arteta knows the bigger challenge is to maintain consistency in the upcoming games. With a tight schedule, especially with the first-team squad being depleted physically, Arsenal need to find a way to re-energise even without the excitement of a derby.
The Gunners boss has allowed his players to enjoy the win on the night but they must turn their attention to the next task in the morning. Aston Villa await them and this will be Arsenal's chance to prove that the win over Tottenham was not a spurt of form but the start of a steady run of form.
