Arsenal boss Renee Slegers believes her side's victory over rival Tottenham "was a step in the right direction".

After a run of five games without a win in the Women's Super League (D3 L2), the Gunners came from behind to defeat Spurs 2-1 on Saturday.

Spurs took the lead in the 13th minute through Cathinka Tandberg, but Georgia Stanway restored parity at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium just four minutes later.

Alessia Russo, who assisted Stanway's equaliser, then scored the winner from the penalty spot just before the hour mark after Ella Morris handled the ball in the box.

Arsenal have now won 11 of their 14 North London derbies in the WSL (D2 L1), with this victory moving the Gunners up to sixth, one point and two places behind Spurs.

Slegers told BBC Sport: "Happiness mainly. I see the fans and what it means for them.

"I'm happy for the players, who stuck in, in a really difficult period for us. There were good moments from us. It was a step in the right direction. Very happy with the win but we have to back it up.

"Things in different phases were good. We were brave in our press. We did well playing around them and dominating the ball. We created fewer shots than last week but we weren't expecting to. The opportunities created were good."

A BIG TEAM VICTORY  https://t.co/S5qHb6aQuZ

— Arsenal Women (@ArsenalWFC) October 24, 2026

Arsenal won the expected goals (xG) battle 2.24 to 0.3, restricting Spurs to just one shot on target, which was their goal.

Russo was responsible for the majority of Arsenal's xG (1.21), while she also created the most chances in the match (three) and won seven of her 12 duels.

"I've worked on it [the penalty] in training, first and foremost," said Russo, who has scored more WSL goals against Spurs (nine) than any other opponent.

"I think we knew some of us were going to have to step up today in different moments. It's been tough for us, there's no denying. Whether it was Foordy stepping up, Misa making saves, me on the pen – everyone stepped up.

"We've got injuries right now as well. I'm happy to play where I'm needed. I'm a nine but if I'm needed deeper, that's what I'll do. We have different players that can play in different places. I'll give all I can to this team."