Tottenham hosted Inter Milan at the Wembley in a must-win encounter, and they kept their hopes alive in the Champions League by securing a hard fought 1-0 win. Christian Eriksen came off the bench to score the winner, and Mauricio Pochettino’s men live to fight another day in Europe’s elite competition.
Spurs were on the ascendancy and dominated for the most parts in the first half as they had to go for a win. A controversial moment occurred when Lucas Moura was brought down in the penalty box, but the referee was having none of it. Harry Winks hit the crossbar, and the Italian giants would have been glad that the first half ended at 0-0.
However, Spurs persisted and got their reward late in the 80th minute. Now they need to beat Barcelona next to ensure a place in the knock out rounds.
Here is how Pochettino’s men fared.
Hugo Lloris 7
Wasn’t required a lot in the game but came up with a crucial save late in the second half to keep Spurs in the tie. A decent night for the captain in goal.
Jan Vertonghen 7
Coming back from a lengthy injury spell, the Belgian was at it from the beginning. Read the game well and distributed the ball superbly from the back.
Toby Alderweireld 6
Had a tough job of keeping a live wire like Icardi quiet and conceded a yellow card when he brought him down. Got better and confident as the game went on.
Ben Davies 7
Spurs have missed Danny Rose due to injury, but this was one of those games where Davies stepped up. Showed great energy and worked tirelessly whether it was in defence or going forward.
Serge Aurier 7
Was astute in his defensive duties for the most parts. Made some crucial blocks and interceptions.
Moussa Sissoko 8
The Frenchman is slowly becoming one of the favourites at the club as he worked tirelessly and was seen everywhere on the pitch. His impressive lung bursting run in the 80th minute allowed Eriksen to score.
Harry Winks 8
Hit the crossbar with a brilliant effort from a distance. Shielded the ball well when in possession and did everything that is required of a central midfielder
Dele Alli 7.5
Took some decent attempts at goal but his most important contribution of the night was when he unselfishly assisted Eriksen for the winning goal.
Erik Lamela 5
Lacked the cutting edge and effectiveness for the most part. Picked up a yellow for a reckless challenge.
Lucas Moura 5
Blew hot and cold for the most parts of the game. Made some impressive runs but his final ball was lacking. Was substituted by Son later on.
Harry Kane 6
Was a handful for the Inter defenders in the first half and Handanovic had to come into action to deny the English forward. His effectiveness dropped as the game went on.
Substitutes
Christian Eriksen 7
Finished well for the goal as he lifted the ball smartly over Handanovic.
Son Heung Min 7
His pace and directness caused a lot of trouble, and he clearly looked like creating something after coming on.
Eric Dier N/A
Didn’t have much impact.
