Historic Hat-Trick Seals Emphatic Derby Victory
In a stunning display of individual brilliance, Eberechi Eze wrote his name into Arsenal folklore by scoring a hat-trick in a dominant 4-1 victory over arch-rivals Tottenham Hotspur. The result at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday 23 November 2025 sent the Gunners six points clear at the Premier League summit, marking a potentially pivotal moment in the 2025-26 title race.
Eze's Masterclass and Tottenham's Tactical Failure
From the first whistle, an electrifying Eze showcased the purpose and quality that Tottenham so painfully lacked. The playmaker, who came close to joining Spurs in the summer, was simply unplayable. His performance was made all the more significant as it was just the fourth hat-trick in the history of the north London derby and the first since 1978.
Arsenal's breakthrough came from Leandro Trossard, who finished cleverly after a delightful, artistic clipped pass from Mikel Merino. This goal highlighted the gulf in quality and intent between the two sides. Spurs, managed by Thomas Frank, set up with an extremely deep defensive block, featuring three centre-backs, but it proved utterly ineffective.
Eze quickly added Arsenal's second, and his first, with a goal that sparked debate over a potential offside but was nonetheless deserved. He then extended the lead early in the second half with a smart finish before crowning his performance with a sublime third goal, exquisitely curving the ball into the top corner after a blistering counter-attack.
Consequences for the Title Race and Spurs' Identity
The result felt monumental, especially with Manchester City dropping points elsewhere on the same weekend. For Arsenal, with a crucial trip to second-placed Chelsea next, this was a statement win powered by their new talisman.
For Tottenham, the defeat was a damning indictment of their negative approach. Their sole consolation was a spectacular 40-yard wonder-strike from Richarlison when the game was already lost at 3-0. The performance raised serious questions about the club's direction and identity, a stark contrast to the attacking philosophies of managers like Ange Postecoglou.
Ultimately, the afternoon belonged to Eberechi Eze. His hat-trick not only secured a famous derby win but may well be remembered as the day he launched himself as a true Arsenal legend and potentially fired his team towards the Premier League title.
