Arsenal came out on top in a nervy North London derby as defender Gabriel Maghalaes’s second-half winner handed them all three points vs. Tottenham Hotspur.
The Gunners were without midfielders Martin Odegaard, Mikel Merino and Declan Rice but managed to survive a stern test provided by Ange Postecoglou’s side.
David Raya made some remarkable saves in the first half to deny Dejan Kulusevski. Meanwhile, Spurs’ shot-stopper Vicario made a sharp stop to block Kai Havertz’s header and later on saving an effort by Gabriel Martinelli. Mikel Arteta’s men displayed a defensive masterclass as they faced 16 shots on goal from Spurs, keeping just 36 percent possession.
In an ideal world, Arsenal would have liked to go to Spurs and to exert more control on the game via possession, but with the personnel available to them, the game plan was imperious, the performances were colossal, and the collective spirit and culture at Arsenal is FEROCIOUS 🛑 pic.twitter.com/c1V6Y02G8q
— EBL (@EBL2017) September 15, 2024
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However, tempers boiled as Jurrien Timber’s tackle on Pedro Porro was enough to start a clash between the two sides late in the first half. But it was Brazilian star Maghalaes who tasted success in the 64th minute via a Bukayo Saka corner. He rose above his marker Christian Romero and planted the header past Vicario.
What Gabriel Jesus did to youngster Ethan Nwaneri vs Spurs?
Among all the jubilance, former Manchester United star Gary Neville noticed an interesting exchange between youngster Ethan Nwaneri and striker Gabriel Jesus when the academy graduate entered the pitch in the 86th minute. Speaking live on Sky Sports, he said:
“Jesus has told Nwaneri, you go up top and I’ll manage the right hand side. I like that.”
Arteta will also be pleased that the Brazilian stepped up and calmed the talented midfielder during the most stressful period of the match.
Gabriel Jesus telling Nwaneri to stay up top while he covered the defensive shift in place of Saka is top tier leadership and awareness.
A huge part of Arteta’s success today and in general is the defensive work of our wingers.
Small details matter. They matter a lot.
— . (@HandofOzil) September 15, 2024
The 27-year-old showed superb leadership, as it made far more sense for the experienced star to sit back and defend. This allowed Nwaneri to use his blistering pace during the counterattack.
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It was great to see the striker take the defensive burden on his shoulders, and he must keep guiding the Enfield-born wonderkid who is adjusting to the Premier League’s lifestyle.
The fans will be ecstatic to win such an important contest, especially after having key players sidelined. They have now won back-to-back league games at the Tottenh*m Hotsp*r stadium. It sets a perfect platform for their next Premier League match vs. table-toppers Manchester City.
