Tottenham Hotspur claimed a narrow but morale-boosting 1–0 victory over Arsenal in a tightly contested preseason friendly on Thursday, as both clubs ramp up preparations for the new Premier League campaign.
The decisive moment came just before half-time when Pape Matar Sarr capitalized on a loose ball in the box to slot home in the 45th minute, giving Spurs a lead they would not relinquish.
The match, played at a packed Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong as part of their pre season Tour, was the latest edition of the North London derby, albeit in friendly terms. Despite its preseason status, the game was played with the intensity and edge expected from two fierce rivals.
Cagey Encounter With Flashes of Frustration
Tottenham midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur picked up a yellow card in the 36th minute following a late challenge in midfield. The tension escalated in stoppage time, with Arsenal’s Mikel Merino and Spurs winger Brennan Johnson both shown yellow cards after a brief confrontation near the touchline.
While chances were limited, both sides had spells of pressure. Arsenal’s Kai Havertz came close early in the second half with a low drive that fizzed past the post, while Tottenham’s Vicario forced a save from late on.
However, it was Thomas Frank’s Tottenham—playing under his guidance as new manager during preseason—who showed slightly more sharpness and cohesion, and they walked away with bragging rights from this North London clash—winning the Hong Kong Football Festival Trophy.
Key Takeaways for Both Sides
The match provided valuable minutes for returning internationals and new signings. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta handed a late cameo for new striker to Viktor Gyokeres and, new defender Cristhian Mosquera while Mohammed Kudus started for Tottenham.
Although it was only a preseason fixture, the competitive nature of the match offered a glimpse of the rivalry to come in the Premier League season, which kicks off in mid-August.
Tottenham will next face Newcastle this weekend, while Arsenal return to the Emirates Stadium to take on Villarreal next Wednesday in a club friendly ahead of their premier league opener against Manchester United on 17th August.