Tottenham 0-0 Arsenal: Nothing to separate North London rivals in WSL

Tottenham and Arsenal played out a goalless draw in Sunday's North London derby as both teams missed the chance to go third in the Women's Super League.

Following Manchester United's 3-0 defeat at Manchester City on Saturday, both sides knew a victory would take them above the Red Devils in the table, as they entered the game level on 15 points.

But there was nothing to separate them at Brisbane Road, either, with the Gunners creating the better chances but failing to capitalise.

Most of those opportunities came after half-time, with Stina Blackstenius working Lize Kop at her near post in the best chance of the opening period.

A better opening fell the Swede's way five minutes after the restart, but she blazed high over the crossbar after half-time substitute Olivia Smith weaved through several challenges.

Smith then shot straight at Kop following a goalmouth scramble just after the hour mark, with Caitlin Foord unable to convert on the rebound, while Martha Thomas skewed wide at the other end when Spurs had a rare sight of goal in stoppage time.

Neither side was able to find a winner, however, leaving last season's European champions already eight points off the top of the table.

Data Debrief: A game of few chances

Spurs entered this match having lost nine of their previous 11 North London derbies in the WSL, winning one in December 2023 and earning one draw.

But the hosts battled to a hard-earned point on Sunday despite only firing off just four shots worth 0.16 expected goals (xG). Arsenal had 13, totalling 1.68 xG.

Only West Ham – also against Arsenal on September 12 – have accumulated a lower xG figure in a WSL match this season. 

Arsenal boss Renee Slegers hooked Katie McCabe after the left-back was booked late in the first half, and this fixture remains the most-played derby in WSL history that has never seen a red card for either team in 12 meetings.