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Tottenham lose 1-0 to Liverpool on Firmino’s first half winner

By Gary Pearson

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 11: Georginio Wijnaldum of Liverpool battles for possession with Giovani Lo Celso of Tottenham Hotspur during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool FC at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on January 11, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 11: Georginio Wijnaldum of Liverpool battles for possession with Giovani Lo Celso of Tottenham Hotspur during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool FC at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on January 11, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images) /
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First half

A familiar feeling from the first half saw Tottenham thoroughly dominated by the Premier League runaways. Containment was always Jose Mourinho’s go-to option against Liverpool, who haven’t lost in the Premier League in over a year.

The gaffer gave a surprise debut to 20-year-old Japhet Tanganga, who was selected for his blistering pace. Tanganga started the match well, playing with energy, verve and tenacity. He blocked Firmino’s shot off the line in the opening minutes and it appeared like a dream debut was on the cards.

In all fairness Tanganga troubled Sadio Mane throughout the first half, but was eventually undone by a moment of brilliance from the Frimino. The Brazilian showcased all of his skill and experience, goading Tanganga into committing while allowing the ball to come across his body. He bashed the ball home to give the away side the deserved lead.

Most people predicted how Tottenham would try to combat a fervent, formidable Liverpool attack. And the first half reflected almost exactly that predicted script.

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The Reds enjoyed 73 percent of the ball, dominating every facet. Forced to hit the ball long repeatedly and hope, Spurs had no options in possession. The Reds hit the post and Virgil van Dijk later missed a sitter from close range. In truth Liverpool could have been out of sight at the break, such was the disparity between the two sides.