Tottenham Player Ratings: ‘Really good’ 9/10 but ‘frustrating’ 4 as Arsenal defeated
Tottenham Edge Arsenal 1-0 in Historic Hong Kong Derby – Full First Half Analysis and Spurs Player Ratings
Tottenham Hotspur claimed the bragging rights in the first-ever North London Derby played outside of the UK, defeating Arsenal 1-0 in a lively pre-season friendly at the Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong. It was a fixture steeped in novelty and pride, but Spurs, under new manager Thomas Frank, showed more clinical edge and resilience to come out on top against their fiercest rivals.
The first 45 minutes delivered plenty of entertainment for fans in attendance, with both sides having moments of promise. Arsenal started brighter, dominating possession early on and pushing forward with intent. However, it was Tottenham who came closest to breaking the deadlock—on multiple occasions.
Pedro Porro’s curling corner almost caught everyone off guard, striking the right-hand post in the early exchanges. Not long after, new signing Wilson Odobert fired a low, deflected shot that also cannoned off the same upright. In an almost comedic sequence, the resulting corner ricocheted off the left post before hitting Richarlison and sailing over the bar. Despite all that misfortune, Spurs finally found the breakthrough in spectacular fashion.
Senegalese midfielder Pape Matar Sarr picked up the ball just past the halfway line and unleashed a stunning long-range effort that sailed over Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya and into the net. It was a goal worthy of winning any match and gave Spurs a well-earned 1-0 lead heading into the interval.
Tottenham had the chance to double their advantage just past the hour mark. Mathys Tel, who had just come on, did brilliantly down the left flank and whipped in a perfect cross. Micky van de Ven, unmarked in the box, met it with his head but couldn’t keep it on target.
As for Arsenal, they struggled to carve out clear chances. Guglielmo Vicario had a quiet afternoon, rarely troubled and only forced into one routine save late in the game. Spurs’ defence, marshalled well by the Romero–Van de Ven partnership, kept the Gunners at bay with composure and strength.
Here are our detailed player ratings from Tottenham’s pre-season triumph in Hong Kong:
Tottenham Hotspur First-Half Player Ratings
Guglielmo Vicario – 6
The Italian shot-stopper was a virtual spectator for most of the match. Arsenal failed to test him meaningfully, with his only save coming late on—a comfortable stop from a central shot. His distribution was clean, and he helped organize the backline well.
Pedro Porro – 8
A constant source of danger and energy. His curling corner that struck the post nearly embarrassed Raya, and he followed that up with a solid defensive contribution, including a timely tackle on Declan Rice. Porro adapted well to Thomas Frank’s system and didn’t need to make overlapping runs to be effective. Played the full 90 minutes.
Cristian Romero – 8
Romero looked in commanding form for most of his time on the pitch. While his header led to a risky moment for Rice, he was otherwise composed, even producing a cheeky nutmeg on Havertz in his own penalty area. He was subbed off around the hour mark but left the pitch having solidified Spurs’ backline.
Micky van de Ven – 8
The Dutchman looked sharp alongside Romero, picking up right where the pair left off last season. Arsenal found no joy down his side. He should’ve scored with a header from Tel’s cross, but his defensive performance was top-notch until he was substituted with a minor back concern late in the match.
Djed Spence – 8
Handed a stern test up against Bukayo Saka, but Spence held his own impressively. He played the full 90 minutes, showing his ability to compete defensively and keep up with pacey wingers. This display will surely boost his chances of regular minutes under Frank.
Rodrigo Bentancur – 7
The Uruguayan midfielder picked up a yellow card for halting Saka’s run, but overall had a steady presence in the engine room. He dictated the tempo well and contributed defensively, showing signs that he’s getting back to his best following injury recovery.
Pape Matar Sarr – 8
The standout moment of the match belonged to Sarr. His audacious long-range effort just before halftime showed vision, technique, and confidence. Beyond the goal, he worked tirelessly, covering ground and later operating as a number 10 before being subbed off near the end.
Mohammed Kudus – 7
Always a live wire going forward, Kudus consistently probed the Arsenal defence with darting runs. Although he didn’t score or assist, his movement created space and disrupted Arsenal’s shape. His performance dipped slightly in the second half before being subbed, but the Ghanaian looks poised for an exciting campaign.
Lucas Bergvall – 6
The teenage Swede played in the number 10 role and had a mostly composed showing, aside from one errant pass. He frequently dropped deep to help in midfield and showcased good awareness. Suffered from cramps and was subbed late on—a learning experience for the youngster.
Wilson Odobert – 6
The new signing came inches away from scoring as his deflected shot rattled the post. He showed flashes of pace and directness but at times ran into trouble by holding on to the ball too long. A mixed display, but the potential is evident.
Richarlison – 6
The Brazilian worked hard up front and had a bit of bad luck when the ball struck the post and rebounded off him, flying just over the bar. He also had a headed effort blocked early on. Not his most prolific outing, but he put in the effort and will benefit from the minutes.
Substitutes
Kevin Danso – 7
Came on for Romero with 30 minutes to go and slotted in seamlessly. Strong in duels and kept things simple to help secure the clean sheet.
Mathys Tel – 6
His cameo brought energy and creativity. His run and cross to set up Van de Ven was top class, though the chance wasn’t converted. Showed enthusiasm and intelligent movement.
Brennan Johnson – 5
Struggled to make an impact on the right flank during his 30-minute stint. Service to his side was limited.
Ben Davies – 6
Replaced Van de Ven in the final 15 minutes and ensured Arsenal remained at bay. Calm and composed in central defence.
Son Heung-min – 6
A short but impactful appearance. Made one exciting run down the left and nearly set up Tel for a late goal. Expected to start in front of his home fans in South Korea in the next match.
Yves Bissouma – 6
Brought fresh legs to midfield, helping Spurs retain control during the closing stages.
James Maddison – N/A
A welcome sight for Spurs fans as Maddison returned from a knee injury. Only played a few minutes late on
Tottenham’s win over Arsenal may not have counted for points, but it certainly sent a statement. Thomas Frank’s side looked cohesive, organized, and dangerous on the break. With players like Sarr, Kudus, and Odobert showing flashes of brilliance and established stars like Romero and Van de Ven performing solidly at the back, there’s plenty to be optimistic about.
As pre-season continues, Spurs fans will hope the team carries this momentum into competitive fixtures—starting with Son’s emotional homecoming in South Korea.