Every Premier League champion needs a pivotal victory on the journey to the throne. And for Arsenal, the 4-1 destruction of Tottenham Hotspur in the North London derby could be that moment.
Let's put aside the fact that Spurs have not won any domestic league matches in 2026 and are struggling in the bottom group. More importantly, Arsenal's way of answering doubts - both external and internal - about their bravery in the championship race.
In the context of overwhelming pressure, Arsenal stood firm and performed the football of a true champion. When errors were almost gone, Mikel Arteta's team gave the strongest response.
It is understandable that rival fans mocked the "Gunners"' desire to win the Premier League for the first time since 2004. But at the time of peak pressure, Arsenal turned doubts into motivation.
Pressure, skepticism and necessary response
The 2-2 draw against Wolves - when Arsenal dropped the 2-0 advantage against the bottom team - almost became a negative turning point of the season. 2 points lost at Molineux changed the situation. Man City only needs to win the rest, including the direct confrontation on April 18 at Etihad, to decide the throne.
That exhaustion followed a wave of criticism. Paul Merson, former Arsenal legend, even called his old team weak and said they were collapsing. In the context of Man City - the six-time champion in the last eight seasons - fiercely chasing, confidence outside the Emirates dressing room became fragile.
Declan Rice had to speak out to call for solidarity: "We need fans more than ever. We have come here together, it is not time to turn our backs". But words, no matter how sincere, still need to be verified by actions on the field.
Victory of bravery
Man City once did that when they reversed to defeat Liverpool at Anfield. That was a must-win match, and they won. What about Arsenal? Against Spurs, they were also in a position where they were not allowed to stumble.
The reality this season shows that when facing big opponents, Arsenal often lacks a decisive boost. They drew with Man City, lost and drew with Liverpool, drew with Chelsea, besides the defeat to Manchester United. The 4-1 victory over Aston Villa in December last year was positive, but it took place in a period when they were in high spirits.
Spurs this time is another challenge. Arsenal entered the derby with only two wins in the last seven rounds, dropping 11/21 maximum points. Pressure rose, skepticism spread, and mocking songs "second place again" rang out.
But Arsenal responded with the most explosive performance at the right time. They not only won, but also won in a way that affirmed their position.
If at the end of this season, Arsenal really steps to the top, people may look back at the 4-1 victory over Tottenham as a pivotal moment. At least, at the most stressful time, they have proven one thing - when forced to win, they can win.
