“I loved the way we played and the courage we showed…” – Arteta happy with derby win

Arsenal beat north London rivals Tottenham 2-0 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to extend their lead at the top of the English Premier League table to eight points.

A Hugo Lloris own goal and a well struck effort by captain Martin Ødegaard guaranteed all three points for the Gunners.

ALSO READ: Osimhen wins Globe Soccer award

Following the huge victory, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said he’s sure he and the players are doing their best and are making the fans happy.

While speaking to Sky Sports about what he liked about the game, Arteta said: “Everything. I loved the way we played and the courage we showed to come here and play. Doing our job we can make a lot of people happy and i’m sure we’ve made Arsenal fans very happy.

“It is not for me. Everything we ask they are so willing to try and do. They are a terrific group of players. I think today we went another step. We won last season in big stadiums, but the way we won today was really pleasing to watch.”

Arsenal began the game excellently dominating proceedings and deservedly took the lead in the 14th minute when Bukayo Saka’s slightly deflected effort was punched into the net by French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.

The Gunners continued to press and came close to adding a second when Thomas Partey’s shot went off the post. Team captain Ødegaard was also denied an opportunity following a brilliant Lloris save.

The Norwegian was not to be denied in the 36th minute after he received a neat pass from Saka before sending a powerful shot past the goalkeeper.

Holding on to the lead was characterized by discipline and resilience from the Arsenal side. The game ended with a goalless second half but the two goals were enough for Arsenal to celebrate.

ALSO READ: Naomi Osaka announces pregnancy, to return to the court 2024

The victory at Tottenham meant Arsenal won a north London derby away from home for the first time since 2014.

“We were really aggressive…”

Arteta spoke further: “It shows not only determination and courage but you have to have the belief and quality to do it against this team. That is absolutely down to the players.

“We were really aggressive and were really intense against the high press. We won so many balls and duels. They created some openings, they are a dangerous team, but we did a lot of good work today.”

Interestingly, Arsenal have reached 47 points in 18 matches this season, that’s the same number of points they accrued after 25 matches last season.