Tottenham star’s celebrating an own goal by Villarreal. (Image: Getty.)
Tottenham grabbed a vital three points on their return to the Champions League, but will be very grateful to have received a helping hand on their way to victory. Lucas Bergall forced the opening goal in a howler for goalkeeper Luiz Junior, who parried the Swede’s cross into his own net.
Junior’s head was in his hands and he looked as if he wanted the ground to open up, having made one of the biggest mistakes the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has seen.
Despite some nervy moments and a below-par second-half display, Thomas Frank’s side were able to see out the win, with a clean sheet also in the bag, in a positive start to their European campaign.
Here, Express Sport takes a look at Spurs’ stars in their opening European match…
Tottenham player ratings vs Villarreal (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper
Guglielmo Vicario – 6
Did not have a single shot to save and will come away from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium a very delighted goalkeeper.
Defence
Pedro Porro – 6
A quieter evening than usual for Pedro Porro, who would have been disappointed to look up and see no team-mate in sight after breaking forward into what could have been a strong position near the Villarreal box in the second half.
Cristian Romero – 7
Thwarted a concerning attack by Villarreal after 52 minutes when his side were put in danger and generally looked imperious throughout. The skipper’s contract renewal this summer may be some of the best business Spurs have done in some time.
He did try a few ambitious long passes that were cut out shortly after half-time, however, and led to counter-attacks.
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Thomas Frank speaking to Djed Spence after his early mistake. (Image: Getty)
Micky van de Ven – 6
Largely dealt well with Villarreal’s attack until the closing stages, where he brought down Georges Mikautadze when the forward was racing through on goal. VAR did check if contact was inside the area and whether or not a red card needed to be issued, but the Dutchman got away with a booking and a free-kick that Nicolas Pepe flashed wide.
Djed Spence – 6
Recovered well after an early lapse in concentration allowed Villarreal the chance at a promising attack. Burst 80 yards forward to get Spurs upfield in the second half when they were in dire need of some control.
Midfield
Rodrigo Bentancur – 7
Stepped in well in place of midfield holder Joao Palhinha admirably and made a handful of very important challenges.
Lucas Bergvall – 8
His dangerous cross, aimed in Richarlison’s direction, forced a horrid own goal by Villarreal’s goalkeeper. He continued his strong form, after starring in last week’s win over West Ham, and was the best player on the pitch once more before receiving a standing ovation when replaced by Kevin Danso in stoppage time. His long throws can sure cause a problem too.
Pape Matar Sarr – 7
His and Bergvall’s midfield runs from deep caused Villarreal plenty of problems. He played very high in a clear tactical tweak by Frank and reaped the rewards.
Attack
Mohammed Kudus – 7
His excellent cross to the back post should have resulted in a goal but Richarlison was well-marshalled by Santiago Mourino. Spurs’ biggest threat in the first half.
Richarlison – 6
Richarlison was his lively self, and felt as if he deserved a penalty in the first half, but his influence waned as the game went on.
Xavi Simons – 6
Looked very bright on his first big European night for Spurs and it is clear why they were willing to pay £51.8m to beat Chelsea to his signature. However, the Dutchman should have been given a second yellow card for a trip on Pepe, having picked up a booking in the first half also. Villarreal boss Marcelino was understandably furious on the touchline, for which he received a yellow of his own.
Xavi Simons dribbling with the ball. (Image: Getty)
Substitutes
Joao Palhinha (69′) – 7
Came on to wrestle some control back into a game that Spurs had threatened to squander and did just that.
Destiny Udogie (69′) – 6
Took a risk while waiting for Vicario to come out and collect a loose ball, but was solid as he continues to build up his fitness.
Brennan Johnson (76′) – 6
Didn’t have enough time to make a serious impact on the match.
Randal Kolo Muani (76′) – 6
Picked up a yellow card just moments after replacing Richarlison and spent the rest of the match closing down Villarreal.
Kevin Danso (90′) – N/A