Match Preview
The North London Derby always feels bigger than a normal league game, and this edition at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has the ingredients for a proper heavyweight battle. Tottenham will want to feed off home intensity, play with speed in transition, and make the game emotional. Arsenal will want control, composure, and long spells of pressure that silence the stadium and force Spurs into mistakes.
Tottenham’s best route is to keep the tempo high without losing shape. When Spurs press in bursts and win the ball in good areas, they can create chances before Arsenal’s defensive structure sets. The danger is losing control of the midfield zone because once Arsenal establish possession, they can pin Spurs back, win second balls, and keep the attack rolling.
Arsenal’s key is patience with purpose. In derby matches, forcing plays too early can invite counters, and Tottenham will target those moments. Arsenal will look to circulate the ball, switch play quickly, and create cut-back chances rather than relying on hopeful deliveries. If Arsenal score first, the match can tilt toward their rhythm. If Spurs score first, it becomes a crowd-driven storm where Arsenal must stay calm.
Derbies are decided by margins: one defensive lapse, one set piece, one big save. The team that manages emotions best usually gets the reward.
TV Broadcast and Livestreams
Broadcast rights vary by country for the Premier League. Check your local sports networks and official streaming partners in your region. Club match centres also provide live coverage and updates.
Match Information
| Date | 22 February 2026 |
|---|---|
| Kick-off Time | 16:30 UTC (16:30 GMT / 17:30 CET / 22:00 Sri Lanka time) |
| Venue | Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London |
| Competition | England – Premier League |
Match timing and venue listings: Sofascore · Arsenal fixture page
Odds (1X2)
| Result | Odds |
|---|---|
| 1 – Tottenham | Check market (varies) |
| X – Draw | Check market (varies) |
| 2 – Arsenal | Check market (varies) |
Note: Odds move frequently and can change close to kick-off. Use reputable, legal operators in your country and bet responsibly.
Form and Head-to-Head
| Team | What to Expect (Snapshot) |
|---|---|
| Tottenham | Most dangerous when the match becomes fast and transitional; will want high intensity and crowd momentum. |
| Arsenal | Control-oriented and structured; will try to dominate territory and limit Spurs’ counter-attacking moments. |
Head-to-Head note: Recent North London derbies often swing on the first goal and set-piece moments. For match history and matchup stats, see: Premier League match page.
Key Battles to Watch
- Midfield control: Arsenal want calm possession; Spurs want turnovers and second-ball chaos.
- Transitions: Tottenham will target the space behind Arsenal when attacks break down.
- Wide areas: Switches of play and 1v1s can decide who gets sustained pressure.
- Set pieces: Derbies are often decided by one delivery and one scramble in the box.
- First goal: It shapes the entire emotion and tactical plan of the match.
Prediction
Final Score Prediction: Tottenham 1–2 Arsenal
Prediction: Expect a high-intensity derby with momentum swings. Tottenham should have strong home spells, but Arsenal’s ability to control phases and create repeated attacks gives them a slight edge if they stay composed under pressure.
Best Bet Ideas (safer style): Arsenal draw no bet (risk-reduced) or Under 3.5 goals, as derbies can stay tight for long phases before opening up late.