3 keys to an Arsenal victory in Saturday’s North London Derby

2. Score first

There was a period not so long ago when the first scorer in the North London derby seemed to be cursed! However, with a maturing Arteta at the helm and the meticulous Conte in the opposite dugout, you get the feeling that the first goal on Saturday will be crucial in determining the dynamic of Saturday’s bout.

Both managers want to establish as much control as possible – Arteta with the ball, and Conte without – which makes the upcoming derby so enthralling. A chess match is in store between a pair of ideologically contrasting coaches.

If Arsenal take the lead, it’ll be harder for the Spurs boss to justify a mid/low block with an emphasis on transitions. The Lilywhites have, however, won seven points from losing positions this season – the most in the Premier League.

Arsenal, meanwhile, were excellent when they went behind against Fulham and they’ve shown at various points this season that they respond well to adversity. Going behind against Conte’s Spurs, though, will leave them at the mercy of an elite counter-attacking side.

For me, it’s more important that Arsenal score the first goal on Saturday. Spurs have often started games slowly this season before improving as the contest wears on.

Continued on the next slide…