Tottenham defeat Arsenal in pre-season North London Derby

Tottenham Hotspur edged past fierce rivals Arsenal with a slim 1–0 win in a tense pre-season North London derby on Thursday.

The breakthrough came just before half-time, as Pape Matar Sarr slotted home in the 45th minute, which was the only goal in an otherwise tight encounter.

Chances were few and far between, with both sides struggling to break each other down. Spurs’ Rodrigo Bentancur saw yellow in the 36th minute, while Arsenal’s Mikel Merino and Spurs’ Brennan Johnson were also booked during stoppage time.

The game, although a friendly, gave both teams the chance to test formations and fitness ahead of the new season. But it was Tottenham who walked away with the bragging rights.