The North London Derby always delivers drama, and on February 22, 2026, it arrives with plenty on the line for both clubs. Arsenal head to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as strong favorites at –180, sitting atop the Premier League table and desperate to maintain control of a tight title race.
Tottenham vs. Arsenal Overview
Arsenal’s recent dip in form, including a 2-2 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers, has sparked scrutiny, but leaders like Declan Rice have urged unity as pressure mounts. Tottenham, meanwhile, are enduring a tough 2025-26 campaign, anchored in 16th place and clinging to Premier League safety under new boss Igor Tudor. With confidence building but a host of injuries and poor recent results, Spurs (+500) approach this historic rivalry with a nothing-to-lose mentality.
Recent Form & Key Context
Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham enter this derby in the midst of a struggled season, with only two home league wins all year and no victory so far in 2026.
Key Players:
- Dominic Solanke – Spurs’ most dangerous attacking outlet, contributing goals and forward link-up.
- Richarlison – Top scorer on the team with seven goals; his ability to stretch defenses is vital for Tottenham’s limited creativity.
- Xavi Simons – Provides spark and runs in transition but has lacked consistent end product.
Spurs have struggled defensively and are without key personnel (including suspended defender Cristian Romero), meaning goals conceded could be a concern against an Arsenal attack.
Arsenal
Despite dropping points recently and coming off a frustrating draw, Arsenal remain league leaders and have been one of the top teams in England this season in both defense and attack.
Key Arsenal Contributors:
- Viktor Gyökeres – Leading Arsenal’s scoring with eight Premier League goals; a pivotal attacking threat.
- Leandro Trossard – Offers flair and goal contributions from wide forward positions.
- Bukayo Saka – Creative engine capable of unlocking stubborn defenses.
- Declan Rice – Drives midfield presence and stability.
Arsenal have the historical edge in this rivalry, winning six of the last seven league meetings and claiming a 4–1 victory in the reverse fixture earlier this season.
Tactical Preview
Spurs under Igor Tudor will aim for organization and set-piece threats through Solanke and counterattacks from Richarlison and Simons. Tottenham’s injury-depleted defense and lack of consistent form, however, make them vulnerable if Arsenal can control possession and probe from wide areas.
Arsenal will look to dominate territory and tempo, leveraging midfield cohesion to create chances through Gyökeres, Saka, and support from Trossard. The visitors are well suited to exploit defensive lapses from Spurs while soaking up early pressure.
Head-to-Head Trends
This fixture has been dominated by Arsenal historically, and recent results underscore that trend. Arsenal have notched several convincing derby wins, including multiple victories at Tottenham’s ground, reinforcing their psychological advantage heading into this clash.
Tottenham vs. Arsenal Prediction
Arsenal’s superior talent, league position, and head-to-head dominance point strongly toward a Gunners victory, even if Tottenham’s derby spirit ensures a competitive 90 minutes.
Predicted Score:
Tottenham 1, Arsenal 3
Arsenal should control large stretches of the match with possession and effective use of transitions, while Tottenham may find the net on a set piece or quick break but ultimately struggle to contain the Premier League leaders.
Best Bet Angles:
- Arsenal to win (–180)
- Over 2.5 goals – likely given Arsenal’s attacking depth and Spurs’ defensive struggles