Spurs advance in Carabao Cup with 2-0 win over rivals Arsenal

Less heated than this season’s previous NLD, Tottenham made the most of their chances with goals from Heung-min Son and Dele providing the difference.

Both sides named a strong team for Wednesday’s match, as Spurs and Arsenal looked to advance to the last four of the Carabao Cup. Never to be taken lightly, it was another entertaining North London Derby between the clubs. Tottenham leave The Emirates on a positive note this time, having knocked their rivals out of the cup with a solid display all-around.

The match started quietly as Spurs looked to absorb some early pressure and build confidence. It only took 20 minutes for the opening goal, as a lovely move was completed by forward Son. Son, leading the line with Harry Kane on the bench, was lively all game and worked his socks off up top.

The play started at the very back with Paulo Gazzaniga kicking long to Lucas. Lucas managed to lay off to Dele, who then picked a sublime pass to Son who finished expertly with his left foot.

Tottenham looked to put the game to bed but Arsenal created chances of their own throughout the rest of the half. While Spurs held most of the possession, their rivals were dangerous on the counter. For the last ten minutes of the half a flurry of chances came in at Gazzaniga’s goal, but Tottenham still lead at the break. The Argentine made a brilliant one-handed save on Aaron Ramsey at 43′.

Having ended the half strongly, the home side began the second in the same fashion. Tottenham once again stood strong, managing to clear their lines after every opposition chance. The match continued to be played end-to-end with both sides pushing for a goal. Harry Kane made his first league cup appearance in three years, replacing Lucas and hoping to seal the game.

Arsenal countered by introducing Alexandre Lacazette, but it was not meant to be for them as visiting Spurs added a second shortly after.

Tottenham produced another incredible move, this time through sub Kane. Picking up the ball at midfield from Gazzaniga, Kane turned and fired an excellent ball over the top. Dele raced onto it before dinking an arrogant chip over Petr Cech, much to the applause of the away fans.

Dele, who was named Man of the Match, produced another brilliant performance, playing in the deeper role that he has called home this season.

Arsenal hit the post two minutes later, but never seriously threatened Tottenham’s goal again.

In a dark note on the match, Dele was struck by a bottle in the 73′. The Englishman laughed it off and flashed “2-0” with his fingers to the home supporters.

Christian Eriksen hit a devilish strike at the Arsenal goal with less than 10 to play that went out for a corner after Cech mishandled.

Spurs ended the match the dominant side in what was surely some nice payback after the defeat in the league. In truth, Tottenham were the better side from kickoff and Pochettino will be thrilled with his player’s performances.

Tottenham now have Chelsea at home for the first leg of the semi-final which will be played on the week of Jan. 7. Spurs go away the week of the 21st to Stamford Bridge hoping to have the tie wrapped up.

Once again, they are in great position to pick up a trophy and with a few more matches like tonight, Spurs could be lifting the cup on Feb. 27.