Tottenham’s depleted squad go sliding out of Champions League

Marcel Sabitzer’s first half brace put the tie out of reach, as Tottenham’s depleted squad, despite their best efforts, were outgunned and outmatched in the 0-3 defeat.  

Everyone associated with Spurs hoped for a repeat performance of the miracle in Amsterdam in last season’s Champions League semifinal. But deep down we all knew that was as improbable as Eminem producing a rap album devoid of expletives.

Hamstrung by a litany of injuries and an obvious depletion of confidence, it was clear this was an insurmountable task for Jose Mourinho’s side. RB Leipzig’s lead going into the second leg was as secure a one-goal advantage as you’ll see in the Champions League.

Lucas Moura portrayed the loneliest of figures up front, while it felt like Dele Alli, every time he was in possession, had a mob of Leipzig players to contend with. With all fairness to Japhet Tanganga and Ryan Sessegnon, the defensive pair were in over their heads against an experienced, dominant Leipzig.

Marcel Sabitzer, who enjoyed a largely uncontested first half, played in more advanced position for the German side. The 25-year-old captain scored both of Leipzig’s first half goals, both of which Hugo Lloris wasn’t able to turn around the post.

There’s a fine line between playing with composure and veering on to the blasé side of things. Periodically Eric Dier swung unknowingly to the blasé side, far too slack when emergency mode should have kicked in.

Rarely do we see Tottenham go quietly into the night like they did this evening. But we all knew the writing was on the wall going into this one. Without an attacking threat and clear frailties at the back, very few expected Tottenham to advance to the quarterfinal.

Even sadder than departing from the Champions League this evening is the prospect of not returning to the competition until the 2021-2022 campaign.

Everything that could have gone wrong in north London has since the turn of the new year. 2020 hasn’t been kind to Tottenham. But in our darkest hour Tottenham supporters will stand together, unwavering and resolute, hoping we won’t ever again witness our lads fade quietly into the Champions League night.