Arsenal answer title pressure with resounding derby win at Spurs - ESPN

ESPN

by Mark Ogden and James Olley

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Arsenal secured a dominant 4-1 victory over their local rivals Tottenham in the North London derby, showcasing resilience and quality under pressure. The win came thanks to two braces from Eberechi Eze and Viktor Gyökeres, who both scored twice each. This emphatic performance not only restored Arsenal's five-point lead over Manchester City at the top of the Premier League but also delivered a strong message to their critics, especially after dropping points against Brentford and Wolves earlier in the month. The match was crucial for Arsenal, as they faced mounting pressure following Manchester City's 2-1 win over Newcastle, which had closed the gap to just two points before kickoff. Despite Randal Kolo Muani briefly leveling the score for Tottenham, Arsenal remained composed and capitalized on their superior class. The game highlighted a stark contrast between the two sides, with Arsenal demonstrating purpose and efficiency in front of goal. Tottenham, under new coach Igor Tudor, continues to struggle with consistency and goal threat. With only 13 senior fit players available, the team faced an uphill battle, especially against an Arsenal side determined to prove their credentials. This defeat leaves Tottenham just four points above West Ham in the relegation zone, raising serious concerns about their ability to avoid a potential drop from the Premier League. The win for Arsenal also underscored the importance of character and mental strength in high-stakes matches. Despite criticism regarding their inability to deliver under pressure, the Gunners responded with a commanding performance that reaffirmed their status as title contenders. The victory not only solidified their position at the top but also demonstrated their ability to handle the demands of the Premier League title race. In a season where every point is crucial, Arsenal's dominance in this derby sends a clear signal to Manchester City and the rest of the league. With 10 matches remaining, the Gunners are poised to challenge for their first league title since 2004. Meanwhile, Tottenham's struggles continue as they search

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/22/2026