Tottenham Hotspur retain their place at the top of the Premier League with yet another win over Arsenal in the north London derby. It was a classic Jose Mourinho performance as first-half goals from Harry Kane and Son Heung-Min led to a second-half defensive masterclass from the hosts, who barely allowed any goalscoring opportunities to the visitors.
Tottenham Hotspur Player Ratings Vs Arsenal
Hugo Lloris 7.5/10
Hugo Lloris didn’t have to do too much despite Arsenal attaining the lion’s share of possession. He did, however, make one world-class save to deny Alexandre Lacazette in the second half.
Serge Aurier 8.5/10
It was yet another impressive defensive display from Serge Aurier, whose game has significantly improved this season. The Ivorian remained disciplined and was predictably no match for Bukayo Saka or Kieran Tierney in physical or aerial duels.
Toby Alderweireld 9/10
Returning to the starting lineup following a brief spell on the sidelines, Toby Alderweireld once again showed what he is capable of with a majestic defensive performance. He marshalled the backline with his experience and leadership while the Belgian’s ability to read the game made it difficult for Arsenal to create any clear cut chances.
Eric Dier 8.5/10
Eric Dier complimented the contribution of Alderweireld with an equally impressive display. His imposing aerial and physical presence allowed Spurs to move one step ahead of the opposition, giving them more solidity in set-pieces and long balls.
Sergio Reguilon 7.5/10
Sergio Reguilon may not have had too much freedom going forward this evening, but the Spaniard showcased a lot of maturity in regards to his defensive positioning.
Moussa Sissoko 7.5/10
Moussa Sissoko was always an obstacle for the Arsenal ball-carriers in midfield as the Frenchman often hurried and hassled the opposition. His work-rate, aggression and tenacity were key in disrupting the opposition’s flow.
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg 9/10
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg once again channelled his inner Casemiro with yet another masterful performance in the holding midfield role. The Dane’s ability to win back possession was second to none while he also showed immense strength in physical duels.
Son Heung-Min 8/10
Son scored one of the goals of the season in the first half, with his sumptuous strike from 30 yards giving Spurs the all-important opener. The South Korean didn’t enjoy much freedom in the final third, especially in the second half. But, the goal itself is worthy of a higher rating.
Giovani Lo Celso 7/10
It was perhaps not the best of games for Giovani Lo Celso, who struggled to provide the dynamic nature that has been evident in Tanguy Ndombele’s performances this season. Nevertheless, the Argentine was involved when Tottenham did go forward, though not so much after the restart.
Steven Bergwijn 6.5/10
Steven Bergwijn wasn’t really involved much in the game. He did work hard and played a key role in the first line of press but that was the extent of the Dutchman’s performance this evening.
Harry Kane 7.5/10
Harry Kane produced a stunning finish just at the stroke of half-time, giving Tottenham a 2-0 lead. Found it difficult to influence the game in the second half, largely due to Tottenham’s defence-oriented tactics.
Substitutes
Ben Davies 6.5/10
Came in for Lo Celso during the final phase of the game, offering more defensive support and allowing Reguilon to play in a more attacking role.
Lucas Moura N/A
A late replacement for the tiring Son.
Joe Rodon N/A
Replaced Bergwijn in the final few minutes as Mourinho opted for more defensive bodies in an attempt to preserve the clean sheet.
