Late Mura goal makes Tottenham Hotspur task clear vs Rennes in Europe

Tottenham Hotspur may not know when their postponed match with Stade Rennais will occur but we do know what Spurs need to do in that match to advance. 

It was a late NS Mura goal that cost Tottenham Hotspur points and full control of their European destiny. So it is only fitting that it was a late Mura goal that provided real clarity on what Tottenham must do to advance in the Conference League, giving Spurs some measure of control again.

Goal difference is the difference for Spurs

Going into the matchday, Spurs had a slim two-goal advantage over Vitesse in terms of goal difference. Given changing tiebreakers this season in UEFA club competitions, that goal difference could be the deciding factor between Tottenham and Vitesse in advancing from Group G.

Vitesse had done their part for 80 minutes accumulating a 3-0 lead on Mura. Those three goals had erased Spurs’ two-goal advantage and put the Lilywhites a goal behind. However, just as the little Slovenian side did to Tottenham, they were not done fighting against Vitesse.

At the 82-minute mark, Amadej Marosa scored for Mura cutting the deficit and putting Spurs level with Vitesse on goal difference. The game ended 3-1 to Vitesse who beat Mura 5-1 on aggregate over the two legs. However, that one goal, sure is significant, especially as far as Tottenham Hotspur is concerned.

Tottenham simply need to beat Rennes to advance

Being even on goals is huge for Tottenham as they were going to need to beat Rennes by two goals, had they ended the day behind on goal differential. Instead, any win at all will carry Spurs through to the next round.

Given all the situation surrounding the club’s current medical crisis, having a little clarity does provide some comfort in an otherwise chaotic time. Knowing a win, whether by one goal or five, is good enough to advance, just a win, makes the required outcome at least one thing Spurs know.