Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou makes complaint after Arsenal defeat - 'Switched off'

Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou has complained that his players 'switched off' for Gabriel's goal as his side lost 1-0 to Arsenal in the north London derby on Sunday

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Jack Otway

By Jack Otway


Published: 15/09/2024

- 16:59

The Australian has opened up after the north London derby on Sunday

Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou has complained that his players 'switched off' for Gabriel's goal as his side lost 1-0 to Arsenal in the north London derby on Sunday.

Spurs had gone into the showdown hoping to avoid losing to their rivals at home for the third year in a row.


It was a game of small margins, with both teams struggling to break each other down.

But Arsenal picked up all three points courtesy of a thunderbolt header from Gabriel in the 64th minute.

Tottenham Ange Postecoglou Arsenal

Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou has complained that his players 'switched off' for Gabriel's goal as his side lost 1-0 to Arsenal in the north London derby on Sunday

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The Brazil international rose highest after a brilliant corner from winger Bukayo Saka.

And Postecoglou has now complained about his side's defending, lamenting that his players 'switched off' to their peril.

"I thought it was a tight game all the way along. We controlled it for the most part and got off to a good start," he said.

"We didn't capitalise on the opportunities and we were unable to get on top of them.

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"We lost concentration [for the goal]. We've got some big guys in there who really attack the ball and we just switched off for a second.

"I think I've said my piece. For the most part we controlled the game today, had good territory and possession but we didn't make the most of it and we got punished."

While it was a devastating day for Tottenham, it was a crucial win for Arsenal.

The Gunners were without Declan Rice for the clash, with the midfielder missing through suspension.

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Captain Martin Odegaard was also absent after picking up an injury during the international break.

Yet Arteta was pleased at how Arsenal responded, with the Spaniard saying: "It's unbelievable, I don't know when it happened in our history.

"After the international break, we had a few blows. How the team reacted was magnificent. It showed a lot of maturity from the team.

"When they get into the final third, it's very difficult because they have a structure. We were missing vital players and we had to react to that. I'm very pleased.

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Tottenham lost 1-0 to Arsenal with Gabriel scoring the only goal of the game

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"We had to adjust and use different players and qualities.

"I was hoping they would do something with the ball and we did it. Sometimes better than others. They are a really good side.

"When we have to defend in deeper areas, we did it really well.

"There are things to improve but we have another victory here and it's huge.

Tottenham Arsenal

Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou was disappointed after his side lost 1-0 to Arsenal in the north London derby

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"I know how our supporters will feel about this so enjoy it."

Arsenal are next in action against Atalanta on Thursday (8pm).

As for Tottenham, they'll be looking to return to winning ways when they go up against Tottenham in the third round of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday (8pm).

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