Tottenham’s first-half player ratings vs Slavia Prague as an 8/10 livewire delivers a standout display in front of Son.
Guglielmo Vicario – 6
Watched an early effort zip past his post after the defence was exposed. Moments later he pushed away a strike heading for the bottom corner. Added another routine save low to his right on 30 minutes.
Pedro Porro – 6
Spurs built far less through the right than the left. He was quiet until midway through the half when he drifted into central areas. Aside from a blocked effort and a couple of decent crosses, he had a low-key opening period.
Cristian Romero – 8
Split the defence with a superb lofted pass to send Kudus through – the kind of creativity expected from Maddison. Flicked on a near-post header to assist the opener from a corner and carried the ball forward with authority.
Micky van de Ven – 7
Battled intensely with his opposite number throughout the half. Collected a harsh yellow card for a stray hand to the face as he broke past his man, meaning he’s suspended for the Dortmund clash.
Djed Spence – 7
Combined well with Odobert down the left. Put in some strong tackles along the touchline and showed the aggression Spurs will need with Udogie sidelined until January.
Joao Palhinha – 6.5
A steady presence in midfield, circulating possession sensibly and allowing the creators around him to flourish. Surprisingly booked despite winning the ball cleanly.
Archie Gray – 7
Starting again in the pivot, he continues to look comfortable in the role. With Palhinha deeper, he had licence to push on and influence play progressively.
Xavi Simons – 7
Scoring recently has lifted him. Operated brightly in the final third and linked play neatly. Still needs a bit more strength on the ball at times, but he’s settling into his Tottenham role.
Mohammed Kudus – 8
Forced a save from a tight angle after shrugging off his marker. Turned his man brilliantly on 20 minutes before firing in a dangerous cross that nearly resulted in an own goal. Produced his trademark bursts through the middle but sometimes held the ball too long, including a heavy touch on a great chance from Richarlison. A lively half.
Richarlison – 7
Nearly scored inside a minute from Odobert’s delivery, but hit it where the keeper could reach. Tested the goalkeeper from distance and worked tirelessly down the channels. Delivered a superb cross that Kudus should have converted.
Wilson Odobert – 7.5
Started electric, twisting up the right-back before supplying a delightful ball that should have been finished. Looked dangerous every time he attacked his man, raising questions about why he hasn’t been given a consistent run on the left.
