Key Takeaways:
- Eberechi Eze scored his first career hat-trick as Arsenal defeated Tottenham
- Arsenal extended their Premier League lead to six points at the top
- Tottenham managed only four touches in Arsenal’s penalty box and recorded 0.07 expected goals
Match Overview and Context
Eberechi Eze delivered a sensational show at the Emirates as Arsenal registered a commanding win over Tottenham, moving six points clear at the summit of the Premier League. Eze, who joined Arsenal from Crystal Palace for £67.5m after turning down a move to Spurs in the summer, made a decisive impact in the north London derby, punishing his former suitors with a career-first hat-trick.
Mikel Arteta on Eberechi Eze's impact since signing for @Arsenal from Crystal Palace ❤️ pic.twitter.com/8PlK3hpnXj
— Premier League (@premierleague) November 23, 2025
How the Action Unfolded
The scoring was opened by Leandro Trossard before Eze doubled Arsenal’s advantage with a dazzling solo goal before the break. In an emphatic restart, Eze added his second strike just 36 seconds into the second half, further strengthening Arsenal’s hold on the match. Following a response from Richarlison for Tottenham, Eze completed his treble, sealing the result for the hosts. Notably, Tottenham struggled in attack, mustering only four touches within the Arsenal box and generating just 0.07 expected goals during the match.
Manager and Player Reactions
Mikel Arteta heaped praise on Eze’s influence following the victory, saying, “Things happen for a reason,” and highlighting Eze’s commitment in training following his international duty and the added “aura” he brings. Arteta, having steered Arsenal to three successive runners-up finishes prior to Eze’s arrival, expressed delight in the new signing’s impact on the squad’s mentality and confidence.
After netting only twice in his first 15 games in an Arsenal shirt, Eze reflected on his emotional hat-trick: “It is special. Words can’t explain this one today. That’s what I prayed for: a hat-trick and I got it. I’m grateful to God. God gave it to me, that’s faith. All my family is here and that makes it even more special for me.”
Tottenham’s Setup and Response
Spurs, managed by Thomas Frank, initially deployed a five-man defensive line before altering tactics at half-time. Despite these changes, the visitors managed just four touches inside Arsenal’s penalty area. Frank commented on the result: “It was hugely disappointing that we didn’t perform better against Arsenal, our biggest rival. I can only apologise to the fans for that. We tried to come here and be aggressive and press high and in spells go after them. We were not good enough to get out of the situation.”
