Tottenham's 1-0 victory at Kai Tak Sports Park on 31/7 earned them the Herbalgy Cup. Richarlison was named player of the match.

Coach Mikel Arteta directs the Arsenal team during their 0-1 loss to Tottenham at Kai Tak Sports Park, Hong Kong on 31/7/2025. Photo: Arsenal FC

Following the match, the Brazilian forward posted a photo on Instagram holding both awards, tagging his compatriot Gabriel Magalhaes with a suggestive look.

Richarlison seemed to be enjoying Gabriel's frustration.

Viktor Gyokeres (red jersey) had two touches after coming on late in the game. Photo: Arsenal FC

Gabriel, who missed the match due to injury, quickly responded by sharing a photo of his three "Player of the Match" awards from previous North London derbies, along with a sweating emoji and a tag for Richarlison.

Richarlison and Gabriel are teammates on the Brazilian national team but play for rival clubs. Tuesday's match in Hong Kong marked the first time the North London derby was held outside of England, a significant event in both clubs' summer tours. Despite being a friendly, the tension and rivalry were evident.

The two players will meet again in the 2025-2026 Premier League season. The first leg will take place at the Emirates Stadium on 22/11/2025, and the return leg is scheduled for 21/2/2026.

Coach Mikel Arteta directs the Arsenal team during their 0-1 loss to Tottenham at Kai Tak Sports Park, Hong Kong on 31/7/2025. Photo: Arsenal FC

In Tuesday's North London derby, Arsenal struggled, managing 16 shots with only one on target. Tottenham had six shots, securing the win with Pape Matar Sarr's mid-range strike while goalkeeper David Raya was off his line.

Coach Mikel Arteta remained optimistic, viewing these pre-season friendlies as opportunities for the team to improve in various aspects, from tactics to team spirit. "In terms of preparation, we've faced quality opponents, played in great stadiums with lively atmospheres. While the results haven't been what we hoped for, there are many positives to take from this trip," he said.

During their Asian tour, Arsenal defeated Milan 1-0 and Newcastle 3-2 in Singapore before losing to Tottenham in Hong Kong. Despite not being perfect, Arteta believes the team has made significant progress, particularly with the quick integration of new signings like forward Viktor Gyokeres and center-back Cristhian Mosquera.

"I'm surprised by how they've demonstrated professionalism and quality from their first training sessions. They've integrated very quickly, and I'm really pleased with the team's spirit and performance," the 43-year-old coach stated.

Viktor Gyokeres (red jersey) had two touches after coming on late in the game. Photo: Arsenal FC

Beyond technical skills, Arteta emphasized the strong bond between the players and the coaching staff. He considers this a key factor in helping the team overcome the challenges of a demanding travel and training schedule. "It's been a long two weeks with a lot to adapt to," Arteta expressed. "But everyone, from the players to the support staff, has worked with absolute dedication."

Concluding their Asian tour, Arsenal will return to London to face Villarreal on 6/8 and Bilbao on 9/8. Arteta's team will begin the new season with an away match against Man Utd in the first round of the Premier League on 17/8.

Compiled by Hong Duy