The London representatives played with 10 men for over 80 minutes, but they still knew how to secure a victory.
Player of the Match
Guglielmo Vicario had an outstanding match. In the context of Tottenham playing with 10 men from the 7th minute, after center-back Radu Dragusin received a red card, the North London team still managed to keep a clean sheet. The Italian goalkeeper demonstrated essential reliability by making 5 saves, including 2 crucial stops within the penalty area. Vicario also showed his credibility with goal kicks, achieving an accuracy rate of nearly 90%.
Who Was the Worst?
Radu Dragusin is undoubtedly the worst performer of the match. The Romanian center-back received a red card just minutes into the game due to an unnecessary foul. If Tottenham had faced a higher-caliber opponent, his teammates would likely have struggled to secure all 3 points.
Tactical Statistics
Despite playing with one less player, Tottenham maintained pressure on their opponent’s half in the first half, holding 63% possession and completing 319 passes. However, Qarabag created more dangerous opportunities, with 2 clear chances from 4 shots, achieving an xG of 0.74 (compared to Tottenham’s 0.19). Importantly, Tottenham capitalized on 1 of their 2 chances to score the opening goal.
In the second half, Spurs, with a lead, conceded control of the game. They held just 34% possession and waited for counterattack opportunities. Although they had fewer shots (8 compared to 10), Vicario’s excellence helped the team maintain their clean sheet. Up front, the duo of Pape Sarr and Solanke shone, securing a decisive 3-0 victory for the home team.
Key Players
In addition to Vicario’s outstanding performance, Pape Sarr also deserves praise. He operated like a machine on the flank, consistently contributing both offensively and defensively. Sarr achieved a passing accuracy rate of 92%, with both of his long passes finding their target. Notably, he scored the second goal to ease pressure on Spurs amid intense attacks from the opponent.
Defensively, Sarr won 2 duels and made 1 successful tackle.