Tottenham player ratings in 1-0 win over Manchester City
By Gary Pearson
Midfield
Pierre Hojberg 9/10
A new season but no change in Hojberg’s defensive dominance. After a brilliant showing for Denmark at Euro 2020, Hojberg didn’t miss a beat in the season opener. He was omnipresent, making life incredibly difficult for City’s star-studded lineup.
Oliver Skipp 9/10
Oliver Skipp partnered perfectly with Hojberg at the heart of Spurs midfield. The Englishman showed precisely why Nuno showed faith in him. He was every bit Hojberg’s equal, which is no small feat. Skipp snuffed out the danger posed by Grealish and Sterling, and was a treat to watch. It’s officially his spot to lose, particularly in big games when Spurs need to show defensive superiority.
Stephen Bergwijn 8/10
Stephen Bergwijn, akin to Lucas and Son, enjoyed a fantastic opening match. He was spry and played on the front foot, going at City with every opportunity. The Dutchman will be disappointed not to have finished on a golden opportunity to double the home side’s lead. He scuffed his left-footed attempt just wide.
Dele Alli 7/10
Dele had a quiet first half but came into the match more after the interval. He dispossessed Fernandinho, leading to an opening for Hojberg, who scuffed his attempted shot. Dele didn’t dazzle but was solid defensively and put in a good shift, something Nuno will be extremely pleased about.
Lucas Moura 9/10
The Brazilian was one of Spurs brightest players in the first half. He ran at City’s defence, causing all sorts of problems for Pep’s rearguard. Moura was spry and played on the front foot, all promising signs from the fleet-of-foot attacker. He brilliantly touched a pass onto Bergwijn, who eventually set up Son for Tottenham’s opener. Exciting first day from Moura.