Sun Sep 15 17:00:50 UTC 2024: ## Arsenal Capitalize on Tottenham’s Set-Piece Weakness to Win North London Derby
**London:** Arsenal secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in a tense North London derby, thanks to a headed goal from Gabriel from a corner kick in the 64th minute. This win continues a worrying trend for Tottenham, who have conceded a significant number of goals from set pieces under manager Ange Postecoglou.
Three of Arsenal’s last four Premier League goals against Tottenham have originated from corners, highlighting a vulnerability that has plagued the team since last season. Tottenham have conceded 18 goals from set pieces excluding penalties since the beginning of last season, a tally second only to Nottingham Forest.
Postecoglou acknowledged the issue, stating that he and his team work tirelessly on set-piece defense but that it is ultimately “his burden to carry.” He emphasized that his long-term strategy prioritizes a more expansive playing style over the finer details of set-piece defense.
Despite a strong start and a high number of goal attempts, Tottenham struggled to break down a street-wise Arsenal team, even without key players Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard. The attack, featuring new signing Dominic Solanke, lacked the conviction to create clear-cut chances.
“It’s been the story of our season,” Postecoglou said. “We lack a bit of belief and conviction in the final third.” He added that the team is playing well and dominating games but failing to get the desired results.
This loss puts Tottenham in a precarious position, with only four points from their first four games. Last season, they enjoyed a strong start, winning eight of their first ten matches, but this year, they are struggling to find the same consistency.
Postecoglou insists that the team’s performance this season has been more consistent and compelling than last year despite the negative results. Tottenham will aim to bounce back next weekend as they host Brentford.
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