Tottenham claimed a narrow preseason win over Arsenal in their summer meeting in Hong Kong, marking the first time the north London clash was staged outside the United Kingdom. A single moment of brilliance from Pape Matar Sarr separated the teams in front of a record crowd of 49,975.
The midfielder produced a remarkable chip over David Raya from just past the halfway line in the final seconds of the first half, capitalizing on a turnover in the middle of the pitch. Despite long spells under pressure, Spurs made the most of their limited attacking opportunities.
corners and tactical changes give hints at plans
Both sides showed evidence of work on set pieces during the encounter. Arsenal, known for their strategic approach under Nicolas Jover, revealed fresh routines, with five players positioned at the edge of the box during their opening corner. Last season’s dip in productivity from dead-ball situations may have prompted the experimentation.
While the Gunners looked to reinvent their own strategy, they remained vulnerable at the other end. Tottenham nearly converted twice from corner kicks – Pedro Porro and Mohammed Kudus each struck the frame of the goal, and Richarlison sent a rebound over the bar from close range.
Spurs, meanwhile, appeared well-drilled when defending these situations. New manager Thomas Frank has already begun shaping the team’s structure and focus ahead of the Premier League campaign.
Arsenal’s approach and new arrivals take shape
On tour in Asia, Arsenal has adopted a more direct style compared to last season. In Hong Kong, they pushed forward at speed, registering 16 attempts on goal against their rivals. David Raya, often tasked with distribution, was mixing short passes with longer clearances, suggesting a tactical shift under Mikel Arteta.
That emphasis on quicker transitions and higher shooting volume was also visible in earlier matches – 23 efforts were recorded against Milan and 15 against Newcastle. Arteta acknowledged encouraging signs but admitted key details were still lacking.
The match also featured a returning right-sided trio of Ben White, Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka, whose absence through injury last season impacted Arsenal’s rhythm. The trio worked closely during training, rehearsing patterns involving overlapping runs and targeted crosses.
New signing Viktor Gyokeres came off the bench for his first minutes in an Arsenal shirt. The powerful forward was introduced late in the match and showed glimpses of his potential. His role differs from that of Kai Havertz, as he tends to stay central and search for openings inside the area.
Defender Cristhian Mosquera also made his first appearance. Speaking post-match, Arteta expressed satisfaction with the newcomers’ integration, saying their presence would bring additional energy and strength to the group.
Spurs wide men provide spark as Raya punished again
Although often pinned back, Tottenham posed a threat through their wide players. Kudus and Wilson Odobert consistently tried to beat their markers and stretch the play. Kudus, in particular, stood out with direct play and a corner that nearly snuck in.
Frank praised the Ghanaian after the game, citing his composure under pressure, sharp dribbling, and work ethic. A determined defensive recovery following a set piece underscored his all-around effort.
The crucial moment arrived just before the interval, when Raya’s high positioning was exploited. Sarr took aim from a distance and found the net over the backpedaling goalkeeper – a scenario similar to one Raya experienced last season against Crystal Palace.
