Arsenal Respond to Wolves Collapse with Derby Masterclass

Arsenal have answered their critics in the most emphatic fashion possible. They dismantled Tottenham Hotspur 4-1 in a high-stakes North London derby. This victory follows a damaging collapse against Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier in the week. Mikel Arteta’s side appeared vulnerable after surrendering a comfortable lead at Molineux. They threw away a two-goal cushion against the league’s basement club. Bukayo Saka and Piero Hincapié had seemingly secured the points with early goals. Crucially, a late defensive lapse invited a shocking Wolves recovery on that occasion.

Shaking Off the Molineux Ghost

The Gunners faced intense scrutiny regarding their mental fortitude before the derby. They had dropped seven points from winning positions since January 2026. Only Crystal Palace and West Ham possess a worse record in that category. Bukayo Saka admitted the dressing room felt incredibly flat after the Wolves draw. He urged his teammates to return to basic principles immediately. Meanwhile, Manchester City continued to apply relentless pressure on the league leaders. Pep Guardiola’s side trailed by five points but held vital games in hand. They sensed blood after Arsenal’s recent run of poor results.

Conversely, the North London derby offered a perfect chance for immediate redemption. Arteta demanded his players take every bullet on the chin this week. He told them to look in the mirror before Sunday’s kick-off. His squad responded with a display of pure tactical dominance at Spurs. They ignored the hostile atmosphere at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The Spurs announcer tried to rally the home crowd with loud messages. He claimed the visitors were “nervous as hell” before the game. Arsenal proved those words wrong within the opening ten minutes.

Eze and Gyokeres Ignite Title Charge

Eberechi Eze chose the perfect moment to find his best form. He played as the primary creator in the creative “number ten” role. He scored two magnificent goals to silence the home supporters. This performance reminded everyone why Arsenal paid sixty million pounds for him. Meanwhile, Viktor Gyokeres also found the net twice during the second half. The Swedish striker had faced criticism during a recent dry spell. He showed great composure to finish two clinical counter-attacks. Even Randal Kolo Muani’s equaliser could not derail the clinical visitors.

Arsenal remained cool and measured throughout the entire ninety minutes. They have successfully rebuilt their momentum at a vital seasonal stage. Destiny remains in their hands as the title race reaches its climax. They face a potential title decider at the Etihad Stadium this April. Crucially, they must also navigate difficult home games against Chelsea and Everton. Danny Murphy believes the race will go to the final day. He praised Arsenal for passing this significant test of nerve. Arteta’s men have proven they are ready for the fight.