Arsenal will look to strengthen their grip on the Premier League title as they host fierce rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the highly anticipated North London Derby at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. A victory for the Gunners could see them extend their lead at the top of the table to six points, especially after recent setbacks for Liverpool and Manchester City.
Despite a rare slip-up before the international break, when Arsenal conceded a late goal in a thrilling 2-2 draw against Sunderland, Mikel Arteta’s side remain strong title contenders. A win against Spurs would not only secure local bragging rights but also reinforce their dominance in North London. Historically, Arsenal have the upper hand in this fixture, remaining unbeaten at home against Tottenham since 2010 and winning five of the last six league encounters.
Tottenham, meanwhile, are showing signs of defensive improvement under Thomas Frank, a significant shift from the frailties seen under former manager Ange Postecoglou. While inconsistent, Spurs boast the Premier League’s best away record and are the only side yet to lose on the road this season. However, their record at the Emirates remains poor, meaning a draw might be considered a positive outcome by their supporters.
Team News
Arsenal face injury concerns, with key centre-back Gabriel sidelined due to a thigh injury. Cristhian Mosquera is expected to make his North London Derby debut. Left-back Riccardo Calafiori is a minor doubt but is likely to start. Mikel Arteta will also monitor the fitness of Noni Madueke, Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Martin Odegaard.
Tottenham welcome back several players from injury, including Mohammed Kudus, Archie Gray, Lucas Bergvall, Kota Takai, Ben Davies, and Radu Dragușin. Pape Sarr and Randal Kolo Muani are also available. However, Spurs will still be without key creative duo Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison, as well as their leading striker Dominic Solanke.
Kick-off and Viewing
The North London Derby kicks off at 7.30pm Kenyan time and will be broadcast live on SuperSport TV.
Predicted Lineups
Arsenal: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Mosquera, Calafiori; Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Eze, Trossard; Merino.
Tottenham: Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Spence; Palhinha, Bentancur; Kudus, Sarr, Odobert; Richarlison.
