A stunning long-range strike from Pape Matar Sarr helped Tottenham Hotspur beat Arsenal 1-0 in the first-ever North London Derby played outside of the UK. The match, hosted in front of a record-setting crowd of 49,975 fans, gave supporters a taste of what’s to come this season — intensity, innovation, and new tactical approaches from both sides.
In addition to making headlines, Sarr's daring lob over Arsenal keeper David Raya near the halfway line just before halftime highlighted Tottenham's sharpness and opportunism. Let's take a closer look at the most important lessons from this rare preseason matchup between two of England's most storied rivals.
1. Set-Piece Surprises and Creative Corners Both teams clearly spent time on the training ground crafting new routines for set-pieces.
Arsenal, under the guidance of renowned set-piece coach Nicolas Jover, experimented with a fresh strategy — lining up five players along the 18-yard line during their first corner. Although this tactic hinted at renewed emphasis on dead-ball creativity, the Gunners failed to convert.
But defensively, Arsenal still looked vulnerable from set-piece situations, a problem they still have from last season, when they gave up 14 goals from these situations. Pedro Porro and Mohammed Kudus both hit the post directly from corners, and Spurs almost made a comeback. From close range, Richarlison missed a golden opportunity on the rebound. On the other hand, Tottenham's attack and defense appeared to be well-trained, indicating that manager Thomas Frank is effectively teaching his tactical plan ahead of the new Premier League season.
2. The tactical shift at Arsenal
A faster buildup and more shots Arsenal’s approach this pre-season has evolved significantly. Mikel Arteta’s side, often criticized for overplaying in front of low blocks, now looks more direct and attack-focused.
Goalkeeper David Raya has noticeably altered his distribution, opting for longer kicks to initiate faster transitions. Additionally, the Gunners are more impulsive, taking 23 shots against AC Milan, 15 shots against Newcastle, and 16 shots against Spurs. Arteta commented on the shift:
A lot of what I've seen makes me very happy. But we’re still missing that precision in decisive moments.”
Arsenal may be able to close the gap on title rivals Liverpool and Manchester City with this aggressive strategy.
3. Arsenal's right-field chemistry is rekindled by White, Daggard, and Saka.
Ben White, Martin degaard, and Bukayo Saka of Arsenal's right side were a driving force early in the season, and their return to fitness is a major boost. In an effort to provide better service to new signing Viktor Gyökeres, the trio was observed practicing fluid overlapping runs and quick passing sequences during open training in Hong Kong. White’s overlapping runs give Saka the option to cut inside or feed the full-back for dangerous crosses into the box.
Arsenal's right-wing threat is back and ready to cause trouble now that all three players are fully fit again.
4. Viktor Gyökeres Makes Arsenal Debut
After being substituted on in the 77th minute, Arsenal fans got their first look at the £64 million striker Viktor Gyökeres in an Arsenal uniform. Although his time on the pitch was short, the Swedish forward showed glimpses of what he can offer — strength, movement in the box, and a goal-poacher’s instinct. Unlike Kai Havertz, Gyökeres isn’t heavily involved in build-up play; instead, he stays central and looks to finish moves.
He had a half-chance with a tough-angle header but will surely be eager to make his full debut when Arsenal face Villarreal on August 6.
5. Tottenham's Wide Threat Shines Through
While Spurs absorbed pressure for much of the game, their wide players proved dangerous every time they surged forward. In transition, Wilson Odobert and Mohammed Kudus provided the primary outlet by constantly attacking their fullbacks. Kudus was particularly impressive, even hitting the post directly from a corner.
After the game, manager Thomas Frank praised the Ghanaian’s all-around contribution:
His work rate, one-on-one skills, and hold-up play were exceptional. He’s going to excite fans not just with flair but with his dedication to both attack and defense.”
6. Sarr’s Sensational Goal Highlights Raya’s Vulnerability
The decisive moment came from Pape Matar Sarr, who capitalized on a misplaced pass and spotted David Raya off his line. His flawlessly executed lob from close to the halfway line was a reminder of the risks associated with Arteta's style of play, in which goalkeepers are asked to push high up the field to help build up the attack. This wasn’t the first time Raya has been caught like this — a similar goal from Jean-Philippe Mateta last season for Crystal Palace exposed the same weakness.
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