The English midfielder Eberechi Eze recorded his first hat–trick at Arsenal during a London Derby, as Arteta’s men secured a comfortable 4–1 home victory against rivals Tottenham Hotspur at the Emirates Stadium to go six points clear on top of the English Premier League table.
The Gunners new signing became the first player to score three goals in the London Derby clash after Sunderland’s since December 1978.
The home side took control of the match late in the first half. The breakthrough came in the 36th minute when Mikel Merino’s precise through-ball split the Tottenham defense, allowing Leandro Trossard to score via a deflection.
Arsenal doubled their lead just five minutes later. Eze, showcasing quick footwork inside the box, unleashed a snap shot that proved too powerful for Spurs goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario.
Any hopes of a comeback from the visitors were initially dashed just a minute after the restart. Eze struck again, lashing a powerful shot from the edge of the penalty area to give the hosts a commanding 3-0 lead.
Tottenham managed a momentary response in the 55th minute. With their first shot on target, Richarlison spotted goalkeeper David Raya off his line and scored a spectacular long-range effort from nearly 40 yards.
However, Arsenal sealed the victory in the 76th minute, as Eze completed his hat-trick with a superb finish after good work from Trossard, cementing a dominant performance.
The result comes as a significant statement from Mikel Arteta’s squad, following Manchester City’s surprise loss to Newcastle United on Saturday. This crucial derby win strengthens Arsenal’s title ambitions as they look to end a 21-year wait for the Premier League crown.