Set pieces, injury concerns and defensive pressure shape a decisive North London showdown
Arsenal and Tottenham prepare for another intense north London derby on Sunday at Emirates Stadium, with both clubs aware that small margins could determine the outcome. Tottenham have struggled in recent meetings, failing to win any of the last six encounters. Arsenal have taken five victories from that period and continue to exert strong control in this historic rivalry. They also sit at the top of the Premier League and hope to extend their lead with another significant result.
The match arrives at a moment when both sides are attempting to consolidate their positions among the league leaders. Arsenal have grown more efficient under Mikel Arteta, particularly in the organisation of set pieces. Tottenham have undergone a period of important restructuring under Thomas Frank, who joined the club after a successful spell at Brentford. His influence has been visible on the training ground, especially in the discipline and strategic detail applied to set plays. Both clubs recognise that this area could serve as a decisive factor.
Arsenal currently hold the strongest record for set-piece goals in the Premier League, having scored ten times from such situations this season. Their routines have been rehearsed repeatedly, producing goals from corners and free kicks at crucial moments in previous matches. Tottenham have made substantial progress in this area and now sit joint third in the league rankings with six goals from set pieces. Their efficiency has improved significantly since Frank implemented a more structured approach, which has led to greater clarity over roles and movement inside the penalty area.
Defending set pieces has also been a point of focus for Tottenham. Last season, they encountered repeated difficulties when dealing with deliveries into the box. Under Ange Postecoglou, they frequently conceded from routine corner situations and lost several matches through avoidable errors. Frank has addressed those concerns, and the figures now reflect the improvement. Tottenham have conceded only two goals from set pieces in the current Premier League campaign. Brighton is the only side with a stronger record, having conceded once. This offers Tottenham confidence ahead of a match in which defensive concentration will be essential.
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Arsenal face a notable setback in the absence of Gabriel, who has been their most reliable presence at set pieces in both defensive and attacking contexts. His height and timing often give Arsenal an advantage when the ball is delivered into the area. Without him, Arsenal may need to adjust their marking strategy and reorganise their attacking patterns. Tottenham will likely attempt to make use of this gap and direct the ball into areas where Gabriel previously exerted control.
The second major issue concerns the rhythm of both sides during transitional play. Arsenal have preferred to dominate possession and restrict opponents through pressure in midfield. Tottenham have found success this season by exploiting opportunities created through rapid movement from defence into attack. The speed of this transition may give them an opening if Arsenal commit too many players forward while seeking to control the match.
A third factor is the mental resilience of both teams. A fixture with this magnitude often produces unpredictable momentum swings. Arsenal have demonstrated consistency in recent derbies and take confidence from their home advantage. Tottenham are pursuing a result that could shift the direction of their season and strengthen belief in Frank’s approach.
The contest will hinge on a blend of structure, discipline and decisive moments inside the penalty area. Both clubs have prepared extensively for situations where a single set piece could alter the entire outcome. As the match approaches, anticipation continues to rise, and attention remains firmly on whether Arsenal can extend their lead at the top or whether Tottenham can claim a crucial victory.