2 hours ago
37
Tottenham Hotspur’s Champions League campaign was brought to an end by Atletico Madrid, who secured a 7-5 aggregate win despite Spurs winning 3-2 on the night.
Here are five things we learned from Tottenham 3-2 Atletico Madrid:
Tottenham positives as Igor Tudor secures first Spurs win
Following the draw with Liverpool last weekend, Igor Tudor mentioned that he hoped it would spark something in his Tottenham side, and it did.
Spurs might have lost the tie, but getting a victory over a strong Atletico Madrid side will do their confidence a lot of good.
It marked Tottenham’s first win since 28 January and their first victory under interim boss Tudor.
The former Juventus man has his players showing belief and confidence, which will be key as they look to fight for their Premier League status for the remainder of the season.
Spurs now have much-needed momentum heading into an important relegation clash this weekend.
Archie Gray shines for Spurs vs Atletico Madrid
For most of this season, Archie Gray has received praise for his displays in midfield and defence.
Spurs fans were quick to highlight Gray’s passion and hard work after his display against Crystal Palace a few weeks back, while Dominic Solanke also named Gray as one of the leaders in the dressing room.
However, tonight’s display was not just about effort. Gray oozed class in midfield, playing with the composure of a La Masia graduate.
The midfielder, who has only just turned 20, showed courage and discipline in possession, dropping deep to aid build-up play while also contributing in the final third.
He grabbed the assist for Simon’s first and showed neat dribbling in the build-up to Mathys Tel’s late chance in the first half.
It indeed was a coming-of-age performance for the young midfielder who is growing into a Tottenham shirt. Spurs will be hoping they can keep in north London for much longer, as Gray is attracting interest from clubs in Europe.
Tottenham boost as Destiny Udogie and Lucas Bergvall return from injury
Despite the overall defeat, it was a night with positives, one of which was the return of Destiny Udogie and Lucas Bergvall.
The pair had spent extended periods on the sidelines but returned to competitive action, which is a boost for Spurs heading into the remainder of the season.
Bergvall came on for Pedro Porro and played 15 minutes, while Udogie replaced Radu Dragusin and got over 20 minutes.
There were no further injuries picked up in this game, which, given Tottenham’s predicament this season, is cause for celebration.
Spurs attacking depth tested without Dominic Solanke and Richarlison
Tottenham put up a fight, and many fans will applaud their effort, with the players showing belief and determination throughout.
However, there was a sense that Spurs did not quite have the full attacking options needed to complete the comeback. At 2-1 and even at 1-0 at half-time, Spurs lacked a focal point to call on from the bench to join in the attack.
Dominic Solanke was unavailable due to a minor hip problem, while Richarlison was suspended, and their absence was felt. You do feel that, had both players been available, Tottenham could have scored a few more goals.
Spurs unbeaten European home record extended vs Atletico Madrid
Spurs might not have the best home record in the Premier League, but in Europe at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, they continue to avoid defeat.
Coming into this tie, Spurs were 25 games unbeaten at home in Europe, a run stretching back to 2020.
They extended that record to 26 games with the 3-2 win over Atletico Madrid, even though it was not enough to see them through.
They return to the same ground this weekend to face Nottingham Forest, and if they can carry that European form, they may secure another result.
Have something to tell us about this article?
English (US) ·