Arsenal won at Tottenham’s stadium for the third season in a row, thanks to Gabriel Magalhaes’ header in the second half. The goal came in a tough and physical north London derby in the Premier League on Sunday.
Tottenham put a lot of pressure on Arsenal during the game but couldn’t convert their chances into goals. Arsenal managed to hold on until Gabriel scored in the 64th minute.
The Brazilian center-back lost his defender and scored with a powerful header from a corner kick taken by Bukayo Saka.
“It is a big derby and we are so happy to win here,” Gabriel said, celebrating in front of the away fans after the match. “Let’s enjoy it now.”
The goal was somewhat unexpected but crucial for Arsenal, which is already behind defending champion Manchester City and cannot afford to lose more points before their match at the Etihad Stadium next weekend.
Arsenal was a bit lucky not to fall behind earlier in the game. Tottenham took advantage of Arsenal’s weakened midfield and controlled most of the first hour.
Without Declan Rice, who was suspended, and Martin Odegaard, who was injured, Arsenal struggled against Tottenham’s pressure and had a hard time playing their usual passing game.
However, Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya made two important saves early on to keep Tottenham from scoring, and Spurs striker Dominic Solanke missed some good opportunities.
“We had to work really hard as you saw, we knew it was going to be a difficult game,” said Arsenal midfielder Jorginho, who was the team captain in Odegaard’s absence.
“We had key players missing but we are a total team, the whole squad. We know that whoever comes on will be ready to help the team.”
