The North London Derby is one of the most intense and fiercely contested rivalries in football, where passion, pride and history collide. As Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur lock horns once again, the atmosphere around this iconic match reaches fever pitch, with both teams vying for bragging rights in the heart of London.
Whether it’s the battle for supremacy in the Premier League or the thrilling drama of goals and tackles, this derby never fails to deliver unforgettable moments. In this article, we’ll delve into the history, the key players and the significance of the North London Derby as these two fierce rivals prepare to renew their rivalry on the pitch.
The rivalry between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur has always been a hot topic, so don’t be left behind and catch the two English teams go up against each other on Wednesday January 15, 2025 at the Emirates Stadium.
Don’t miss out on the action and watch it with GOtv and DStv your best football friend. This time around, the North London derby takes centre stage.
Match background
Arsenal have been serious title contenders for the last two seasons, and this one is no different. As the Gunners aim to overtake Liverpool in the Premier League table, Tottenham will have another mission to get themselves out of the bottom half.
In recent years, Mikel Arteta’s charges have had the upper hand in this fixture, but the Lily Whites have never made it easier for them and this time will be no different.
It’s a particularly important clash for Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou, who has had a mixed reception from the club’s supporters this season due to his refusal to compromise on his team’s attacking style of play – even if it means they are often left horribly exposed in defence and suffer many disappointing results as a process.
What the teams are saying
“I’m so happy, we knew it was a difficult game, a big derby. We’re so happy to win, let’s enjoy it. It means a lot. I’m so proud of the team and when we had a difficult time in the game, we scored from a corner. I’m so happy,” said Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes on his winning goal the last time the teams met.
“I guess every derby is a bit different. You can tell it is fairly intense between the two clubs, geographically situated in the same part of town and trying to defend the same turf. There is always a bit of an edge,” said Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou on the rivalry.
“I hate to think, I really would hate to think there are players in the dressing room who want to win this game more than any others or prepare differently or try harder in this game than any other. Because that’s not the way forward,” he added.
“How the team reacted was magnificent. It showed a lot of maturity from the team. When they [Spurs] get into the final third, it’s very difficult because they have a structure,” said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta on the last time the two rival teams met.
Players to watch
Gabriel Magalhaes, Arsenal – The Brazilian defender scored from a towering header to decide the game when Arsenal and Tottenham last met. Given the Gunners’ immense strength at set pieces, expect Gabriel to be a major threat to score again in the North London derby.
James Maddison, Tottenham Hotspur – If Tottenham Hotspur are to claim a surprise away win at the Emirates Stadium, they will need their attacking players to be at their creative and ruthless best – with playmaker James Maddison at the forefront. The former Leicester man will be key to the visitors’ hopes of picking apart the Arsenal defence.
Thomas Partey, Arsenal – The Ghanaian defensive midfielder has impressed this season, earning his place back into the Arsenal starting line-up. His skills will be needed as he navigates the full back position in the absence of key defender Ben White.
Son Heung-min – Since Harry Kane left for Bayern, Son has been trusted to score the goals for Spurs but his tally this season isn’t his best. He will be keen to bounce back against Arsenal as nothing slaps harder than a derby goal.
Head to head
In head-to-head stats, Arsenal and Tottenham have met in 210 matches across all competitions since 1896. The Gunners have claimed 88 wins compared to 67 for Spurs, while 55 games have been drawn.
The teams’ last met in September of last year, with Arsenal winning 1-0 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium thanks to a goal from defender Gabriel Magalhaes. The Gunners are unbeaten in their last five league matches against their North London rivals, winning four of those clashes.
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Broadcast details
Wednesday January 15, 2025
22:00: Arsenal v Tottenham Hotspur – Live on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2.
