It is arguably the most crucial game in the fixture for both Tottenham Hotspurs and their rivals Arsenal. A vital game for both teams and a win is the only thing that can guarantee any of these teams tonight a place in next season's UEFA Champions League. Emotions will be running high across the north of the United Kingdom capital tonight. Conte has now called on the supporters of Tottenham to remain calm and has assured them of a win tonight.
When Antonio took over as the Tottenham boss, Spurs were bearly hanging on a position 9 on the table and the threat of dropping points even further was real. Nobody ever imagined that the north London club would now be fighting out for a position in next season's UCL. Spurs and Conte have only three games including tonight's Arsenal clash to overturn the four points deficit that the Gunners have edged them out with. If they manage to beat Arsenal tonight they will be on their way to Europe's most elite competition at the expense of their arch-rivals. But if Arsenal run away with all the three points after the blow of the whistle at the 90 minutes mark, then they will have entered in style in the UCL competition at their own rival's backyard.
There is so much at stake to both teams who have worked their way to competing levels in the Premier League given their poor starts this season. Conte is no stranger to risks and rewards that only a derby day can offer but Mikel Arteta is not one to underestimate and in an interview has even claimed that he is looking forward to the game and he can not wait for it to start. It is this clash of different football styles from two different managers who have very contrasting philosophies that brings excitement into this game. The big question tonight will be; Which manager will be left massaging his ego at the blow of the whistle? or better still, which manager will swallow his pride at the end of the 90?