What a weekend for the red side of North London! The North London Derby is always the biggest game on the calendar, but yesterday’s clash at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium felt different. It wasn’t just about bragging rights; it was a massive statement of intent.
After a dominant 4-1 victory over Tottenham, Arsenal has moved 5 points clear at the top of the Premier League. As we sit here on February 23, 2026, the big question on every fan's lips is simple: Is there anyone left who can actually stop Mikel Arteta’s red-and-white machine?
Gyokeres continues to prove why he is becoming one of Europe’s most dangerous strikers. You can read our detailed player profile and career journey here:
Viktor Gyokeres career stats, transfer news and playing style explained
A Derby Drama: How the Gunners Silenced the Stadium
The match started with the kind of noise only a derby can produce. But Arsenal didn’t let the atmosphere get to them. They played with a level of "cool" that we haven't seen in years. The breakthrough came in the 32nd minute when Eberechi Eze—who is arguably the signing of the decade—smashed a curling shot into the top corner.
For more on Arsenal’s recent performances this season — including how their attackers have been shaping up — check out our detailed season review here:
Arsenal’s Premier League form and key player performances this season
Spurs did give their fans a moment of hope. Just before the break, Randal Kolo Muani pounced on a rare defensive mix-up to level the score at 1-1. For a few minutes, it looked like the "old Arsenal" might show up and crumble. But this 2026 squad is built differently. They didn't panic; they just waited for the second half to start their real work.
The Second Half: The Viktor Gyökeres Show
If you want to know why Arsenal is top of the league, look no further than Viktor Gyökeres. The Swedish powerhouse scored just two minutes after halftime, a goal that completely sucked the life out of the stadium. His strength is terrifying for defenders, and his finishing is even better.
By the 60th minute, Eze grabbed his second of the game, and the "Ole!" chants started coming from the away end. Gyökeres added a fourth in the final moments, leaving the Spurs defense looking tired and broken. It wasn't just a win; it was a total demolition of their fiercest rivals on their own grass.
The 2026 Title Race Standings
Let's take a quick look at how the table looks after this crazy weekend:
- 1st: Arsenal – 61 Points (28 games)
- 2nd: Manchester City – 56 Points (27 games)
- 3rd: Aston Villa – 51 Points (27 games)
Arsenal has the points on the board, which is always better than having "games in hand." While City is still lurking, they have a brutal run of fixtures against Chelsea and Liverpool coming up. One more slip-up from Pep Guardiola, and the trophy might be heading to the Emirates before May even begins.
Three Reasons Arsenal Look Like Champions
So, what has changed? Why does this team feel so much stronger than previous seasons?
1. The "Killer" Instinct
In the past, Arsenal would dominate games but fail to score the second or third goal. Now, with Eze and Gyökeres, they are clinical. They don't just beat teams; they finish them off.
For a full tactical breakdown of another key English Premier League clash, check out our Manchester Derby match analysis between Manchester United and Manchester City here:
Manchester United vs Manchester City match analysis
2. A Defensive Wall
William Saliba and Gabriel are playing like men possessed. Even when Spurs threw everything at them, the duo stayed calm. Plus, David Raya pulled off a world-class save in the 84th minute that reminded everyone why he’s one of the best in the world.
As the league heads into February, many clubs are finding momentum — see how each team fared in our January results review here:
Premier League results – January 2026
3. Tactical Maturity
Mikel Arteta has evolved. He isn't just about "beautiful football" anymore. This team knows how to suffer, how to defend a lead, and how to strike on the counter-attack when the opponent gets desperate.
Is the Race Done?
For Tottenham, this 4-1 loss is a nightmare that leaves them fighting for their lives in the bottom half of the table. But for Arsenal, it’s the fuel they need for the final sprint.
The title race isn't officially over—never count out Manchester City—but the momentum is 100% with the Gunners. They look faster, stronger, and hungrier than everyone else.
What do you think? Are you ready to crown Arsenal as champions, or is there one more twist in the tale? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!