Spurs Gut Reaction Rant: Win vs Qarabağ FK
Spurs opened their first Europa League game at home to reigning Azerbaijani Premier League champions, Qarabağ FK. It may have been against a supposed “weak team” but this shouldn’t have been looked at as an easy game. Despite the final score being 3-1 in favor of Tottenham, Qarabağ were in control and in the 7th minute, would seize the game’s opening goal.
It was a questionable penalty call on Kieran Trippier that Qarabağ took advantage of but Spurs were able to regroup before the first half ended. Spurs began to press much higher up the pitch and forced Qarabağ into a defensive team. Eventually in the 28th and 30th minute, Heung-Min Son scored two goals. The game was still close and both sides began to have even opportunities to close the game out or make it level. Once it reached the 84th minute, that’s when Érik Lamela was able to break through for a goal and ultimately seal the win. The starting eleven tonight was well balanced and the second half substitutions, helped Spurs’ maintain their pressure until the final whistle blew.
This win will help continue building momentum and confidence ahead of their game versus Crystal Palace which will also become a tough match.
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There were of course some miscues throughout the game and most will unfortunately fall onto Érik Lamela, for good reason, but it may be a byproduct of the Argentine international looking to create something but rushing things. If he’s able to put everything together, like the good aspects of his game tonight, then he could be a big part for Spurs this season.
During the entire course of this game, Spurs showed what they’re capable of when they can get things rolling. It’s a very high-flying offense. Mauricio Pochettino’s high-press counterattacking system, once fully understood, can produce these kinds of results, making Spurs a tough team to contend with from start to finish.
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The eye test would show that Tottenham had the majority of possession and were in Qarabağ’s own half.
The entire offense stood out tonight thanks in large part to the help that Spurs’ midfield and backline did in contributing to getting the ball back and starting a quick counterattack. Their constant effort and making the Atlılar having to resort to parking the bus was a good sign to see.
It’s a result of how Pochettino’s offense can dominate the game into their favor.
When Spurs happened to lose possession, they found ways to win it back and start a counterattack quickly. Two, sometimes three players would try to win the ball back. Once they did, Tottenham would reset their offense and then launch a long diagonal ball to either flank in hopes of catching Qarabağ off guard.
Because Tottenham played well tonight — even with some hiccups — it’ll give Mauricio Pochettino plenty to think about leading up to the matches versus Crystal Palace, Arsenal and Manchester City. Overall, Spurs are set to do some damage with the entire squad improving as the season progresses. Tonight’s win against Qarabağ FK is hopefully a stepping stone in the right direction and a precursor of what this young talented squad can do.
Next: Europa League Matchday: Tottenham Going For It
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