Arsenal delivered a spectacular performance in the North London Derby, thrashing rivals Tottenham Hotspur 4-1 at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, November 23. The victory was orchestrated by Eberechi Eze's historic hat-trick, a feat that sent the Gunners six points clear at the Premier League summit.
Masterclass at the Emirates
The match ignited in the 35th minute when Leandro Trossard broke the deadlock with a precise left-footed strike, set up by Mikel Merino's intelligent play from a central area. The momentum firmly shifted to the home side just five minutes later as Eberechi Eze announced his arrival on the derby stage. Collecting a slick pass from Declan Rice, Eze danced through Tottenham's defense before slotting a fine low finish past goalkeeper Vicario.
Arsenal emerged from the halftime break with undiminished intensity. In the 46th minute, Eze struck again, punishing a flat-footed Spurs defense with a predatory finish from inside the area to complete his brace. Tottenham managed a consolation goal in the 55th minute through a sensational 35-yard lob from Richarlison that caught David Raya off his line.
A Night of Records for Eze
The defining moment arrived in the 76th minute. Eze completed his magnificent hat-trick, picking up Trossard's pass and unleashing a blistering strike from 12 yards out. This landmark goal cemented his place in history, making him the first player ever to score a Premier League hat-trick in the North London derby.
This was only the fourth hat-trick scored in the fixture's long history, following achievements by Ted Drake, Terry Dyson, and Alan Sunderland, whose feat had stood since 1978. Eze's masterclass effectively erased the frustration from Arsenal's previous match, a 2-2 draw with Sunderland before the international break.
Reactions and Implications
Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, an elated Eberechi Eze revealed he had prayed for his spectacular performance. "I am grateful for this. I have worked hard for this. That was the prayer today, for a hat-trick," the 27-year-old said. "All my family is here. It makes it even more special."
Fans quickly took to social media to celebrate the victory and Eze's heroics. One user, @ararsoabdull, commented on the speed of his achievement, while @AndrePhilander1 welcomed the midfielder, stating, "Arsenal you have my heart forever." Another fan, @ubig1, described the performance as "mesmerizing" and noted it was "the easiest North London derby in a long time."
With this result, Arsenal remains unbeaten in their last seven North London derbies and have suffered just one defeat in 33 home league clashes against Tottenham. The win solidifies their position as serious title contenders, putting significant pressure on their rivals as the season progresses.
