Arsenal moved within four points of Premier League leaders Liverpool with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Tottenham in the north London derby at Emirates Stadium yesterday.
The Gunners, who have played a game more than Liverpool, were eager to bounce back from recent setbacks, including a loss to Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg and an FA Cup third-round exit to Manchester United on penalties.
However, Arsenal’s hopes of a win were dealt a blow when Son Heung-min’s shot was deflected off William Saliba past keeper David Raya after 25 minutes, giving Tottenham an unexpected lead.
Undeterred, Arsenal responded strongly, and their pressure paid off five minutes before the interval. Gabriel rose to meet Declan Rice’s corner at the far post, and although Spurs keeper Antonin Kinsky failed to collect, the last touch came off Dominic Solanke for an own goal.
Arsenal took the lead just four minutes later when Leandro Trossard’s low shot beat Kinsky, who should have done better.
The Gunners dominated the second half but struggled to find the cutting edge to put the game to bed. Tottenham almost capitalized on this in the dying moments when Pedro Porro hit the outside of the post from a tight angle.
Despite the nervy finish, Arsenal held on to secure a crucial win that keeps them firmly in the title race.