Gabriel's header secures Arsenal's victory over Spurs in a spirited derby.

Gabriel's header in the second half secured a vital 1-0 victory for Arsenal over Tottenham Hotspur in a heated North London derby on Sunday, helping them stay in contention with early Premier League leaders Manchester City.

Spurs came out strong, with David Raya making key early saves, including a stop on Dejan Kulusevski's first-time shot and another on a threatening cross from the Swedish winger.

Dominic Solanke, making his home debut as a record signing, missed a promising chance in the 14th minute after Arsenal lost possession deep in their own half. Solanke took too long to capitalize on the opportunity, allowing William Saliba to make a crucial recovery.

Arsenal gradually worked their way into the match, with Guglielmo Vicario tested by a header from Kai Havertz, while Gabriel Martinelli mishit a shot with Bukayo Saka well-positioned centrally.

Jurriën Timber narrowly avoided a straight red card in the first half for a reckless challenge on Pedro Porro. His studs caught Porro's ankle, but referee Jarred Gillett judged it not to be serious foul play, and VAR chose not to review the decision, much to the frustration of Spurs supporters.

Gillett issued seven yellow cards in the first half, setting a Premier League record for the most in a single period, just a day after the overall record was set in Chelsea's victory over Bournemouth.

The second half began much like the first, with Tottenham initially dominating. Micky van de Ven tested Raya with a header, but Arsenal soon regained their footing.

The match had been intense but lacking in quality until Arsenal capitalized on a corner, reminiscent of their performance in the previous season's 3-2 away win in April.

Gabriel found space too easily from Cristian Romero, who protested in vain, and headed past Vicario from close range in the 64th minute.

Arsenal managed to hold off late pressure from Spurs, who struggled to create clear chances and were left to shoot from distance. The Gunners seemed content to defend their slender lead.

The victory, Arsenal's third consecutive away win over their rivals, lifts them to 10 points from four games, just two behind reigning champions Manchester City ahead of their upcoming trip to the Etihad. Spurs, still struggling with missed opportunities, remain on four points from four matches.