The North London derby headlines matchweek 20 fixtures, as Tottenham prepare to welcome a much improved and dangerous Arsenal side, who’s getting closer and closer to securing this year’s Premier League title. Home field advantage usually plays a huge role in deciding derbies, as we’ve seen in the reverse fixture when Arsenal came out 3-1 winners. Can Tottenham replicate that on their home soil? Or will the Gunners prove to be too strong to dismantle? We will review both teams forms and chances as we move closer to kick off time. Tottenham V Arsenal – Crucial North London Derby.
Tottenham
Almost 15 years since Spurs last won a trophy, and it’s not looking good for them this year also, as the trophy drought will most likely be extended. They certainly came close on several occasions, most recently in 2019 when they played Liverpool in the Champions League final. So what is it that they need to do to finally win a trophy? Most of us thought that the arrival of Antonio Conte will change that, but that’s not been the case so far as the Italian is struggling to keep his side balanced, especially defensively where they conceded 9 goals in their last 5 matches, winning only 2 of them. He’s not the only one to blame though. After all, it’s been almost 14-15 years of total failure for the Lilywhites and you can’t blame it on someone who’s been there for the past 2 years.
One of Tottenham’s main problem is consistency. You just don’t know which side you’re gonna get and that doesn’t win you football matches and it certainly won’t win you any trophy! On their good day however, they’re more than capable of beating anyone. So which side will we see on Sunday? One thing’s for sure, Conte will definitely get his players to deliver and play a solid derby while defending their home against the blazing Gunners. A much needed win can definitely help the Italian in his quest for another top 4 finish, but that won’t be enough if his side doesn’t keep the momentum heading into the other matches as well. One step at a time though, starting with the electrifying North London derby on Sunday.
Arsenal
The Gunners will certainly be keeping tabs on the Manchester derby this Saturday, as a City win will cut the lead to just 2 points. However, they find themselves in familiar territory yet again, holding their fate in their own hands. So how will they react as they approach their most intense and important period in the season, building up to the ultimate match when they welcome Manchester City on February 15? Can Arteta overcome his master and move closer to the title? Or will Pep ruin his former assistant’s dream?
One thing’s for sure, and after all the controversy, Arteta is proving to everyone that the board was right to stick by him. Arsenal are playing on a different level at the moment, unbeaten in their last 11 games, where they defeated the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea, and non other than Tottenham. Not only are they flowing in the attack, scoring 40 goals so far, just 5 less than 1st place Man City. They’re also playing solid defensively, conceding 14 goals so far which also happens to be the 2nd best after Newcastle’s 11. After all, this consistency level along with the dedication is what makes you a champion. Can they keep it up for the rest of the season? It will be on Arteta’s first to keep everyone motivated, and he’s not shy to try some impressive techniques, like he did the last time these 2 sides met.
Tottenahm V Arsenal Prediction
Taking all of the above into consideration, a draw could be satisfying for Arsenal considering the importance of the game in the title run. It won’t be the same for Tottenham though as they are playing at home and in desperate need of a win. That being said, both teams will approach the game differently of course. Conte will be boosted by the return of Juventus loanee Dejan Kuluveski. However, it might still be too soon for Richarlison and Lucas Moura. Nonetheless Spurs should be capable of filling in this void.
Arsenal on the other hand were able to rest most of the key players during their comfortable win against Oxford in the FA cup. Something that will definitely help Arteta in picking his strongest 11 for the derby on Sunday. There were some concerns regarding Saka, as he limped off with what seemed a small knock. However Arteta did confirm that the youngster will be ready for the big clash. With the current form, it’s hard to defeat Arsenal but it’s all going to depend on which side of Tottenham will we see. We’re giving Arsenal the edge here but it should be a tight derby. Wouldn’t be surprised if Tottenham scored as well.
Premier League Odds
Tottenham V Arsenal – Crucial North London Derby. The prematch betting odds at bet365 have Arsenal favorites to win at 2.20, while Tottenham are a 3.10 to claim their home win. These numbers might change as we move further to the kick off date so make sure to place your bet early and benefit from the high odds.
Make sure to check Tottenham Vs Arsenal odds with bet365.
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