Detailed Analysis of Tottenham vs Arsenal Game in Premier League 2024

Final Score

The final score of the match was Tottenham 0 - 1 Arsenal. Gabriel Magalhães scored the only goal of the game with a powerful header from a corner delivered by Bukayo Saka in the 64th minute.

Key Factors Leading to the Final Score

Arsenal's Set-Piece Prowess

One of the most significant factors that led to Arsenal's victory was their exceptional execution of set-pieces. Arsenal's set-piece coach, Nicolas Jover, has been instrumental in transforming the team's effectiveness in these situations. Since Jover's arrival from Manchester City in 2021, Arsenal has scored 42 goals from set-pieces, more than any other team in Europe's top five leagues. This game was no exception, as Gabriel's header from Saka's corner was a well-rehearsed move that caught Tottenham off guard.

Defensive Solidity

Arsenal's defense was rock-solid throughout the match, despite missing key players like Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard. The center-back pairing of Gabriel Magalhães and William Saliba was particularly impressive. Gabriel not only scored the winning goal but also put in a commanding defensive performance. Saliba, on the other hand, was excellent in his recovery challenges and passing out from the back. Jurrien Timber, playing at left-back, also had a standout performance, contributing both defensively and offensively.

Tottenham's Set-Piece Vulnerability

Tottenham's ongoing issues with defending set-pieces were once again exposed in this match. Since the start of last season, Tottenham has conceded 18 goals from set-pieces, second only to Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. Despite manager Ange Postecoglou's insistence that the team works on set-pieces regularly, the defensive frailties in these situations were evident. Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven struggled to deal with Arsenal's physicality during set-pieces, and goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario appeared hesitant to come off his line.

Midfield Battle

Arsenal's midfield, despite missing Rice and Ødegaard, managed to hold its own against Tottenham's aggressive pressing. Jorginho and Thomas Partey were tasked with filling the void, and while they struggled at times, they did enough to keep Tottenham at bay. Leandro Trossard and Kai Havertz also contributed significantly, with Trossard dropping deeper to help in midfield and Havertz providing a physical presence up front.

Tottenham's Lack of Cutting Edge

Tottenham had more possession (64%) and more shots (15-7) than Arsenal, but they lacked the cutting edge in the final third. Dominic Solanke, Tottenham's new signing, was industrious but failed to convert his chances. The absence of a clinical finisher like Harry Kane was felt, as Solanke's lack of pace and sharpness meant that Tottenham couldn't capitalize on their opportunities. James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski, playing in advanced midfield roles, also failed to break down Arsenal's disciplined defense.

Tactical Discipline

Mikel Arteta's tactical discipline was evident throughout the match. Arsenal's players were well-drilled and maintained their shape, making it difficult for Tottenham to find any openings. The team's ability to transition quickly from defense to attack was also a key factor. Arteta's decision to bring on Raheem Sterling, Gabriel Jesus, and Ethan Nwaneri in the latter stages of the game helped Arsenal see out the match and secure the three points.

Player Performances

Arsenal

• David Raya (8/10): Commanded his area well and made crucial saves to keep a clean sheet.
• Jurrien Timber (7/10): Solid defensively and contributed to the attack down the left flank.
• William Saliba (8/10): Excellent in recovery challenges and passing out from the back.
• Gabriel Magalhães (9/10): Scored the winning goal and put in a commanding defensive performance.
• Ben White (6/10): Struggled against Son Heung-min but improved in the second half.
• Jorginho (4/10): Struggled to replace Rice's intensity and drive.
• Thomas Partey (5/10): Struggled in transition but did enough to keep Tottenham at bay.
• Gabriel Martinelli (6/10): Worked hard but lacked end product.
• Leandro Trossard (6/10): Dropped deeper to help in midfield and did a job for the team.
• Bukayo Saka (7/10): Provided the assist for the winning goal but was less effective without Ødegaard.
• Kai Havertz (6/10): A physical presence up front but largely nullified by Tottenham's defense.

Tottenham

• Guglielmo Vicario (6/10): Made some good saves