In a closely contested club friendly match, Tottenham Hotspur managed to beat their North London rivals Arsenal by a score of 1–0. The game took place on July 31, 2025, and fans from both sides were eager to see how their teams would perform ahead of the upcoming football season.
First Half: Both Teams Start Strong, but Spurs Take the Lead
From the first whistle, the match had a good rhythm. Both teams tried to dominate possession, making sharp passes and testing each other’s defense early on. Arsenal came close to scoring in the 20th minute with a low shot from the edge of the box, but Tottenham’s goalkeeper reacted well to push it wide.

The breakthrough came just before the half-time break. In the 45th minute, Tottenham midfielder Pape Matar Sarr found the back of the net with a brilliant shot that left Arsenal’s goalkeeper with no chance. It was a well-built move that started from the midfield and ended with Sarr calmly finishing inside the box. That goal gave Spurs a 1–0 lead heading into the locker rooms.
In Second Half Arsenal Pushes, but Tottenham Defends Well
Arsenal returned for the second half with renewed energy. They increased their attacking tempo and started to control more of the possession. Several times, they got into good positions, but Tottenham’s defenders stayed organized. Spurs used a compact backline and relied on quick counter-attacks to relieve pressure.

Arsenal’s striker had a golden opportunity in the 63rd minute but missed narrowly wide of the post. Tottenham’s defense remained tight, blocking shots and making important tackles. As the minutes ticked away, Arsenal’s chances continued, but they couldn’t find the finish.
Spurs Show Discipline and Game Control On Their Side
As the game entered the final 20 minutes, Tottenham focused on keeping their shape and protecting their lead. They brought on fresh legs through substitutions, which helped them maintain their energy. Arsenal, despite having more shots in the second half, couldn’t break the deadlock.
Tottenham’s players showed maturity and discipline, especially in the final moments, by managing time wisely and not allowing Arsenal to build too much momentum. The match ended 1–0 in favor of Spurs, giving them a confidence boost before the start of the official season.