## Sarr's Hail Mary Seals North London Derby Victory for Spurs

**Hong Kong - July 31, 2025:** Pape Matar Sarr stole the show with a stunning goal from halfway, handing Tottenham Hotspur a 1-0 victory over Arsenal in a fiery pre-season friendly.  The match marked the first ever north London derby staged outside the UK, captivating a sellout crowd of 49,975 at Hong Kong's Kai Tak Stadium.

**Raya's Blunder Costs Gunners**

Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya endured a night to forget as he was repeatedly caught out of position.  After two inswinging corners rattled the post, Raya's struggles culminated in Sarr's outrageous goal in the 45th minute. The Spurs midfielder capitalized on Raya's advanced positioning, unleashing a shot from 50 yards that nestled into the back of the net.

**Fierce Contest Under Hong Kong Sun**

Despite its friendly label, the match was anything but amicable. Both sides battled fiercely throughout, with tackles flying in and tempers flaring under the stadium lights. Arsenal started stronger, but Tottenham dominated possession and hit the woodwork three times in a frantic first half. 

The second half saw Arsenal launch wave after wave of attacks on the Spurs goal, but new manager Thomas Frank's defense held firm. Gabriel Martinelli missed a glorious opportunity to equalize in the 58th minute, shooting wildly over from just 14 yards out.  Arsenal introduced fresh legs with Leandro Trossard and new signing Martin Zubimendi, who nearly scored on his debut with a deflected shot.

**Stars Shine Late**

The match ignited further when Tottenham brought on Son Heung-min in the 75th minute, followed by an even larger ovation for Arsenal's $67 million summer signing Viktor Gyokeres, making his debut wearing Thierry Henry's iconic number 14 shirt.  Despite some promising runs, Gyokeres will need time to settle into his new surroundings.


**Next Up:**

Tottenham now travels to South Korea to face Newcastle United on Sunday. Arsenal returns home after a three-match tour in Singapore and Hong Kong.   


## Sarr's Hail Mary Seals North London Derby Victory for Spurs

**Hong Kong - July 31, 2025:** Pape Matar Sarr stole the show with a stunning goal from halfway,

English--shared--football News

Stunning Sarr strike gives Tottenham victory over Arsenal