Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur Set for Historic North London Derby Outside of UK

Crucial Gunners and Spurs To Face Off in First-Ever North London Derby at the Newly Opened Kai Tak Stadium.

Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur will make history this summer before the 2025-26 season begins. They will meet in the first-ever North London Derby that will be played outside the United Kingdom. The pre-season friendly is set to be held on July 31 at the newly opened 50,000-seater Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong.

This highly anticipated clash will be held as a part of the Hong Kong Football Festival. It will also feature a showdown between Premier League giants Liverpool and Italian powerhouse AC Milan on July 26. The announcement was made by both clubs on Monday morning.

The Arsenal are coming to Hong Kong 🇭🇰

We’ll play north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur at Kai Tak Stadium on Thursday 31 July.

Ticket details and information of further matches in our 2025 pre-season will be announced in the coming days.
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) March 31, 2025

Statement from Both Clubs

The Gunners and Spurs confirmed their participation in the prestigious tournament through a statement. Arsenal’s Managing Director, Richard Garlick, expressed excitement about the club’s return to Hong Kong after more than a decade. He said:

“Everyone at Arsenal is excited to be visiting Hong Kong in July. It’s great to be back with our men’s first team squad after 13 years and gives us the opportunity to meet so many of our fantastic supporters in the region again.”

Also Read: Who is Arsenal’s New Sporting Director, Andrea Berta?

Tottenham’s Chief Revenue Officer, Ryan Norys, echoed similar sentiments, saying:

“There are few bigger occasions in English football than a north London derby, and to play this fixture in Hong Kong will be a huge occasion for our passionate fanbase across Asia, as well as providing ideal preparation for the team ahead of the new season.”

A Key Pre-Season Test for Both Clubs

The match will serve as a crucial pre-season test for both teams ahead of the 2025-26 campaign. Arsenal are currently battling for the Premier League title. However, it doesn’t look like they have any chance of grabbing that title, due to a huge 12-point gap from the league leaders Liverpool.

Also Read: Tottenham Hotspur Are targeting this player as Son Heung Min replacement

Hence, they will use this opportunity to fine-tune their squad under Mikel Arteta before beginning next season targeting the PL title again. Whereas, Spurs, have had a challenging season under coach Ange Postecoglou. They will also be looking to bounce back with a strong pre-season showing.

Both clubs have emphasized that their visit to Hong Kong will go beyond the pitch. They plan to engage with local communities through charity events, football clinics, and fan interactions. Both clubs have a passionate fanbase in Asia. Hence, both teams are expecting an electric atmosphere at the Kai Tak Stadium.

Arsenal

Arsenal vs Spurs

North London derby

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Spurs

Tottenham Hotspur

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.