Arsenal thrash Tottenham 4-1 away to end 48-year wait

Arsenal FC ended a 48-year wait for a dominant away win over Tottenham Hotspur FC, cruising to a 4-1 victory in the North London Derby on Sunday (February 22) to strengthen their grip on the Premier League title race.

Mikel Arteta’s side responded emphatically after dropping points in their previous two matches, delivering a statement performance on hostile turf. It marked Arsenal’s biggest league win at Tottenham’s home ground since 1978.

Midfielder AJ was the standout performer, breaking an 18-match goal drought with a brace. The forward had previously netted a hat-trick in Arsenal’s 4-1 win over Spurs last November, and once again proved decisive in the derby.

New signing Viktor Gyökeres also struck twice to seal a comprehensive win.

Arsenal took the lead in the 32nd minute when Pape Sarr’s error allowed Bukayo Saka to initiate a swift attack. His pinpoint cross found AJ, who volleyed home brilliantly. Tottenham responded just two minutes later as a mistake from Declan Rice allowed Randal Kolo Muani to restore parity.

The second half, however, belonged to the visitors. Capitalising on defensive hesitation, Gyökeres restored Arsenal’s lead after being set up by Jurrien Timber. AJ extended the advantage in the 61st minute with his second of the night, before Gyökeres added a fourth in stoppage time to silence the home crowd.

With the win, Arsenal move to 61 points from 28 matches, five clear of second-placed Manchester City FC, who have a game in hand. The result significantly boosts Arsenal’s title credentials as the season enters its decisive phase.