What Pedro Porro did to Tottenham fans during Dortmund win as Thomas Frank unleashes key difference-maker
TOTTENHAM 2–0 BORUSSIA DORTMUND: Romero and Solanke strike as Spurs ease pressure on Thomas Frank
Love them or loathe them, Tottenham’s European form at home is impossible to ignore. Spurs are now unbeaten in 24 continental matches at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium — a remarkable run by any standard.
It is a statistic that deserves recognition, especially given how turbulent parts of Thomas Frank’s first season have been. Despite domestic inconsistencies, Spurs have largely delivered in the Champions League so far.
They have suffered just one defeat, picking up four wins and two draws, and this energetic, aggressive performance felt like a genuine platform to build on.
If Tottenham can repeat last season’s trick of beating Eintracht Frankfurt away from home, they could yet push into the top eight and skip the play-off round altogether.
However, this hard-fought win over a 10-man Borussia Dortmund now needs backing up domestically, with a tricky trip to Turf Moor to face Burnley on Saturday.
For now, here are five key talking points from Spurs’ long-awaited return to winning ways in their penultimate group-stage fixture.
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Solanke the game-changer
Dominic Solanke made his first start since May, when Spurs were thrashed 4–1 by Brighton on the final day of last season.
After a gruelling recovery from an ankle injury, this night would have felt like vindication for the striker. Solanke grabbed Tottenham’s second goal and appeared to celebrate by revealing that his partner is expecting — a rare, emotional moment in N17 this season.
There has been little to celebrate at home, but Solanke reminded everyone of his value. His strength, pressing, aerial threat and hold-up play have been badly missed.
Frank has faced heavy criticism, but the absence of his first-choice striker since August offers some context. If Solanke can stay fit, Spurs — and potentially England — stand to benefit, with a backup role to Harry Kane still very much up for grabs.
Romero sets the tone
Cristian Romero does not always lead vocally despite wearing the armband, but the importance of this occasion clearly demanded it.
The Argentine was animated before kick-off, rallying his team-mates — and the response was immediate. Spurs burst out of the blocks and were rewarded when Romero opened the scoring inside 14 minutes.
He was aggressive, composed and inspirational throughout, leading by example and imposing himself on the contest. His goal, cleverly taken, made it two in two games for the centre-back and underlined his influence.
Porro ignites the crowd
When referee Glenn Nyberg dismissed Daniel Svensson, Pedro Porro’s reaction said it all.
The Spaniard sprinted towards the touchline, pumping his arms and urging the crowd to raise the volume. The stadium was already lively, but this felt different — Tottenham sensed opportunity.
Such moments have been rare this season. Only months ago, Porro felt compelled to address supporters on social media after the home defeat to Fulham.
The relationship between players and fans has fluctuated, but on this night there was genuine unity. Spurs visibly fed off the noise and energy from the stands — something that must become the norm rather than the exception.
Bergvall’s injury concern
It was unclear exactly when Lucas Bergvall picked up his injury, but what was obvious was that he stayed on the pitch for far too long.
The issue appeared to begin after a knee clash with Emre Can. Initially he seemed fine, but soon after he went down and required treatment to his lower leg.
Despite trying to carry on, Bergvall was clearly struggling, wincing with every movement. Eventually, Jun’ai Byfield was introduced for his Spurs debut, drawing a warm response from the crowd.
The worry is that Bergvall’s season has been repeatedly disrupted by injuries, and this latest setback only adds to Spurs’ growing fitness concerns.
Dependable Danso delivers again
Kevin Danso continues to prove his worth whenever called upon.
As a so-called “third-choice” centre-back, his professionalism has been exemplary. He rarely complains, stays ready, and consistently performs when stepping in for Romero or Micky van de Ven.
Against Dortmund, he was outstanding — producing a rugged, committed display packed with five recoveries and five clearances. He also played a key role in guiding young Jun’ai Byfield through his debut.
Players like Danso are invaluable during difficult periods, and his contribution deserves serious praise.
