Having lost their unbeaten record in the Premier League last weekend, Arsenal face another acid test when they welcome Tottenham in a North London derby at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.
Arsenal were beaten by league leaders Liverpool last Saturday, the hosts winning 3-1 at Anfield. It was the Gunners’ first defeat of the season, though they remain third in the league and can make it two home wins from two in the new campaign.
Tottenham also come into the derby with defeat fresh in their minds, after Newcastle pulled off a shock 1-0 win last Sunday. It was also Spurs’ first loss this season, though there is a concern as they have failed to win since the opening day and sit seventh in the table.
With this great rivalry providing iconic goals, moments and games in the past, it is certain to be a cracking affair at the Emirates. Both sides will not only be hoping to return to winning ways but also earn bragging rights north of the Thames in one of English football’s fiercest rivalries.
Head to Head
This will be the 199th north London derby, and it is Arsenal who have the superior record out of the two rivals. The Gunners have won 78 times while Spurs have 58 wins to their name, last prevailing in the league in February 2018.
The last derby was at Wembley Stadium back in March, in a dramatic 1-1 draw in the Premier League. Aaron Ramsey opened the scoring with a swift counter-attack before Harry Kane levelled it up with his second-half penalty.
Arsenal are unbeaten in their last six home meetings with Tottenham in the league, with Spurs last winning at the Emirates back in November 2010. However, Spurs were victorious on their last visit, winning 2-0 in their EFL quarter-final tie last December.
Possible Line Up
Arsenal: Leno; Maitland-Niles, Sokratis, Luiz, Kolasinac; Guendouzi, Xhaka; Pepe, Ceballos, Aubameyang; Lacazette
Tottenham: Lloris; Aurier, Alderweireld, Sanchez, Rose; Winks, Sissoko; Lucas, Lamela, Son; Kane.
Betting tips: Too close to call considering the fact that both teams are eternal rivals. However, Arsenal have remained strong at home against Spurs and may get a slim victory. (Arsenal 2-1 Tottenham)
