Eze's Masterclass Sinks Spurs
Arsenal re-established their six-point lead at the Premier League summit with a commanding 4-1 victory over arch-rivals Tottenham Hotspur in a one-sided North London Derby at the Emirates Stadium. The match was defined by a spectacular hat-trick from Eberechi Eze, who chose Arsenal over Spurs in a £67.5 million summer transfer, rubbing salt in the wounds of his former suitors.
Match Report: Gunners in Control
The home side's dominance was evident from the first whistle. Arsenal came close to an early lead when Declan Rice's powerful volley was saved by Guglielmo Vicario. The pressure soon told as Leandro Trossard opened the scoring after 20 minutes, capitalising on a deflected pass from Mikel Merino to find the bottom corner.
The lead was doubled just five minutes later. Eze showcased superb composure, evading a challenge from Rodrigo Bentancur before blasting the ball past Vicario. After the break, Eze struck again, expertly picking out the bottom corner with his left foot to make it 3-0.
Tottenham managed a consolation goal out of nothing. Richarlison lobbed David Raya from long range after João Palhinha dispossessed Declan Rice. However, any hope of a comeback was swiftly extinguished when Eze completed his hat-trick, curling a beautiful shot into the corner from the edge of the box after being teed up by Trossard.
Talking Points from the Emirates
Trossard Proves His Worth
Often used as a utility player, Leandro Trossard delivered yet another crucial performance in a big game. His well-taken goal and assist for Eze's third underscored his immense value to Mikel Arteta's system. With his instincts and finishing on full display, he is making a compelling case for a permanent spot in the starting eleven.
Eze's Inevitable Impact
The narrative was perfect for Eberechi Eze, and he lived up to it spectacularly. His hat-trick means he now has an incredible six goals in his last four appearances against Tottenham. Each finish demonstrated a cool head and clinical edge, leaving no doubt about his quality and justifying Arsenal's significant investment.
Frank's Tactical Misstep
Tottenham manager Thomas Frank bears responsibility for his team's passive display. Spurs failed to register a single shot in the first half, and a half-time substitution, bringing on Xavi Simmons for defender Kevin Danso, was a clear admission that his initial game plan had failed. This was their first away league defeat under his management.
Arsenal's Derby Dominance
This victory marks Arsenal's fourth consecutive Premier League win over Tottenham and their sixth in the last seven meetings. The Gunners' formidable home record in this fixture continues, with just one defeat in their last 33 league derbies at home, a stat that stretches back to 2010.
