It was the first North London derby of the season and it was a match worth watching for both sets of fans, i.e., Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur. The Whites took a healthy lead of 2-0 in the first half, with Christian Eriksen putting the ball into the back of the net from close range and then Harry Kane doubling it for his side with a cool finish from the spot.
However, the Gunners kept their composure and made the most of the defensive lapse that has been a trademark of Mauricio Pochettino’s side so far this season as Alexandre Lacazette found the back of the net with a thumping strike to bring Arsenal back into the contest. The second goal was the fruit of brilliant coordination between Matteo Guendouzi and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as the latter pushed an inch-perfect cross from the Frenchman to make it 2-2 for the hosts.
Harry Kane was unfortunate to have hit the post with a brilliant curling effort, while Sokratis Papastathopoulos’ goal was ruled offside. The game, which could have gone to either side, eventually ended in a draw with both sides sharing the points. Here are a few talking points from the match.
1. A Tale Of Two Halves
The first north London derby of the 2019/20 season was a tale of two halves, to be precise. While Spurs dominated the proceedings largely in the first half, the second half went to the Gunners who made an absolute mockery of the Tottenham defence. Arsenal learned from their mistakes in the first half while Tottenham players looked to be lacking energy, power and precision in their game as they struggled to keep things up even in the second half, with the likes of Nicolas Pepe, Lacazette and Aubameyang making their defenders suffer.
2. Harry Kane’s Superb Form Against Arsenal
The England captain looked brilliant throughout the match. His precision was spot on as he took the penalty to get his side in the driver’s seat in the first half. It was very much unfortunate to see his effort bounce off the post. He looked like a menace for the Arsenal defence. One would reckon, could have had a penalty as Sokratis’ nudge saw him go down in the box. The decision could have surely turned the match in Tottenham’s favour.
3. The Strike Force For Arsenal
Unai Emery should be more than happy to see his forwards making a real impact on the pitch. They have just been good on paper at times. Pepe, Aubameyang and Lacazette looked in sublime form. That is, as they ran riot in the opposition box. It was more visible, especially in the second half.
They helped their side get back into the game. A total of 28 shots, with 14 attempts coming in either half. It is evident in the fact that the trio of Pepe, Auba and Laca could turn out to be the wreckers in chief for the dreams of a number of top clubs in the competition this season. That is, with a lot to play for in the forthcoming days.
