Tottenham Star celebrates its own goal by Villarreal. (Photo: Getty.)
Tottenham grabbed a crucial three-pointer when he returned to the Champions League, but is extremely grateful to have received a helping hand on his way to victory. Lucas Bergar forced the opening goal at Howler for goalkeeper Louis Jr., who took over the Swedish cross to his net.
Junior’s head is in his hands, and he looks as if he wants to open the ground, making one of the biggest mistakes Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has seen.
Despite the nervous moments and standard late displays, Thomas Frank’s side was able to see the victory with a positive start to the European campaign, with a clean sheet in the bag as well.
Here we’ll see the Spurs star in the European open match of Express Sports…
Tottenham Player Rating vs Villarreal (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper
Guglielmo Vicario -6
There are no single shots to save and will be very happy to leave the goalkeeper from Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
defense
Pedro Polo-6
It was a quieter night than usual for Pedro Polo. In the second half, they would have been disappointed that their teammates were invisible after invading what could have been strong positions near the Villarreal Box.
Christian Romero-7
After 52 minutes his side was in danger and generally looked uncomfortable throughout, thwarting concerns of an attack by Villarreal. This summer, the renewal of the skipper’s contract may be some of the best businesses the Spurs have done in a while.
However, he tried out some ambitious long passes that were cut out shortly after halftime, which led to a counterattack.
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Thomas Frank spoke to DJed Spence after his early mistakes. (Image: Getty)
Mickey Van de Ben-6
They mainly dealt with Villarreal’s attacks until the closure stage. There, the forward defeated Georges Mikautatze while running at the goal. The VAR checked whether the contact was within the area and whether a red card would need to be issued, but the Dutch escaped with a reservation and a free kick with a wide flashing Nicolas Pepe.
DJed Spence -6
He recovered well after an early progression of concentration. It burst for 80 yards before and earned upfield in the second half when the Spurs needed some control.
Middle
Rodrigo Bentancourt-7
We went smoothly on behalf of mid-game holder Joao Palhinha and had some very important challenges.
Lucas Bergval-8
His dangerous cross, pointed in Richarrison’s direction, forced his own horrifying goal by the Villarreal goalkeeper. He continued his strong form after starring in last week’s West Ham victory, and once again was the best player on the pitch before receiving a standing ovation when he was replaced by Kevin Danso at stop time. His long throws can certainly cause problems too.
Pape Matar Sarr -7
He and Bergval’s midfield cause many problems from the deep-caused villain. He played very high with clear tactical tweaks by Frank and earned him the reward.
attack
Mohamed Kudus-7
His excellent cross should have led to goals, but Richarrison was well monitored by Santiago Moulino. The Spurs’ biggest threat in the first half.
Richarrison-6
Richarrison was his vibrant self and felt like he deserved a penalty in the first half, but his influence faded as the game progressed.
Xavi Simons -6
It looked very bright on his first big European night for the Spurs, and it is clear why they were willing to pay £51.8 million to beat Chelsea to his signature. However, the Dutch should have been given a second yellow card for a trip to Pepe, as they picked up a booking in the first half. Villarreal boss Marcelino was naturally furious at the touchline, and he received his own yellow.
Xavi Simons dribble with the ball. (Image: Getty)
Alternatives
Joao Palhinha (69′)-7
The Spurs threatened to waste and came to get control over the game that did exactly that.
Destiny Udogie (69′)-6
I took the risk while waiting for Vicario to come out and collect the loose balls, but it was solid as he continues to build fitness.
Brennan Johnson (76′)-6
We didn’t have enough time to seriously affect the match.
Randal Kolo Muani (76′)-6
I picked up a yellow card shortly after trading Richarlison and closed Villarreal for the rest of the match.
Kevin Danso (90′)-n/a
