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The Premier League’s most fiercely contested rivalry takes center stage as Arsenal welcome Tottenham Hotspur to the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at 8 PM UK time. This North London derby is more than just a battle for bragging rights; it carries significant implications for both teams’ seasons.

Arsenal, sitting second in the league with 40 points, are determined to keep pace with leaders Liverpool and maintain their unbeaten home record in the Premier League this season. Meanwhile, Tottenham, languishing in 12th place with 24 points, are desperate to reignite their campaign and close the gap on the European places.

The Gunners are coming off a disappointing FA Cup exit at the hands of Manchester United, while Spurs needed extra time to overcome National League side Tamworth. With pride, points, and momentum on the line, this promises to be a fiery encounter.

An interesting stat to note: Tottenham have conceded in 25 consecutive Premier League away games against Arsenal, a record they will be eager to end.

Team Analysis

Arsenal

Recent Form and League Position
Arsenal are in second place, six points behind Liverpool but with a game in hand. They are unbeaten in their last 10 Premier League matches, with three wins and three draws in their last six. However, their recent form in cup competitions has been concerning, with back-to-back home losses to Newcastle United (EFL Cup) and Manchester United (FA Cup).

The Gunners’ strength lies in their defensive solidity at home, having kept clean sheets in their last four Premier League games at the Emirates. However, their attack has faltered recently, with Kai Havertz and others guilty of missed chances.

Key Players

• Kai Havertz: The German midfielder is Arsenal’s top scorer this season with 7 goals, despite his recent struggles in front of goal.
• Martin Ødegaard: The captain is the creative heartbeat of the team, dictating play and providing key passes.
• William Saliba: The French defender has been a rock at the back, ensuring Arsenal’s defensive resilience.

Injuries and Suspensions
Arsenal have been hit hard by injuries, with Gabriel Jesus suffering another knee injury in the FA Cup loss to Manchester United. He joins Bukayo Saka, Ben White, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Ethan Nwaneri on the sidelines. Riccardo Calafiori is also a doubt due to a muscular issue.

Tactical Setup
Mikel Arteta typically employs a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on possession-based football and high pressing. However, with key attackers missing, Arteta may need to tweak his approach to unlock Tottenham’s defence.

Tottenham Hotspur

Recent Form and League Position
Tottenham are in 12th place, 11 points adrift of the European spots. Their form has been inconsistent, with just one win, one draw, and four losses in their last six league matches. Despite their struggles, Spurs remain one of the league’s most entertaining teams, having scored 42 goals this season.

Their recent FA Cup victory over Tamworth required extra time, highlighting their struggles against lower-league opposition. However, they have shown they can rise to the occasion, as evidenced by their EFL Cup semi-final win over Liverpool.

Key Players

• James Maddison: The playmaker is Tottenham’s creative force, with 8 goals and numerous assists this season.
• Dominic Solanke: The striker has been a reliable source of goals, netting 7 times in the league.
• Son Heung-min: The South Korean forward remains a constant threat with his pace and finishing.

Injuries and Suspensions
Tottenham’s injury list is extensive, with Destiny Udogie, Ben Davies, Richarlison, Micky van de Ven, Guglielmo Vicario, Wilson Odobert, Cristian Romero, and Rodrigo Bentancur all sidelined. Fraser Forster is battling illness but could return.

Tactical Setup
Ange Postecoglou favours an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on quick transitions and exploiting spaces behind the opposition’s defence. However, their defensive vulnerabilities have cost them dearly this season.

Head-to-Head Record

Arsenal have dominated this fixture in recent years, remaining unbeaten in their last five Premier League meetings with Tottenham. The reverse fixture in September 2024 saw Arsenal secure a 1-0 victory at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, courtesy of a goal from Gabriel Magalhães. Tottenham’s last league win over Arsenal came in May 2022.

Prediction

Goal.mu/Mauri.bet predicts: Arsenal 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur

Arsenal’s unbeaten home record and defensive solidity give them the edge in this clash. While Tottenham’s attack is capable of causing problems, their defensive frailties are likely to be exposed. Expect a closely contested match, but Arsenal’s quality and home advantage should see them emerge victorious.

Betting Tips

1. Both Teams to Score: Yes
   Both teams have potent attacks, and Tottenham’s defensive issues make it likely that both will find the net.
2. Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over 2.5 Goals
   With Tottenham’s games averaging over three goals this season, this match is expected to be high-scoring.
3. Anytime Goalscorer: Kai Havertz
   Despite his recent struggles, Havertz remains Arsenal’s top scorer and is a strong candidate to score in this fixture.
4. Hot Stat:
   Tottenham have conceded in 25 consecutive Premier League away games against Arsenal.

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