This marked the team's initial European victory since the previous season.
Match Summary
Tottenham come out on top on their comeback to the UCL
Villarreal shot-stopper the goalie errs the ball into his net
Victory is Thomas Frank's debut European match in charge
Thomas Frank enjoyed a successful Champions League first outing thanks to a costly error by their rivals shot-stopper the goalie.
With minimal challenge, the keeper fumbled the midfielder's delivery into his own net, presenting Tottenham a dream start.
This was previously Brentford boss the gaffer's maiden match in the tournament, but his Tottenham side lived dangerously at points before the break.
A crucial challenge by the defender denied one-time Arsenal player the forward from curling in, while the Villarreal player dragged a shot astray.
But an excellent intervention by Junior prevented the hosts from adding a second goal when he blocked Sarr's effort.
Villarreal applied pressure in the second stanza, but Tottenham stood firm to keep out them.
Richarlison could have been more clinical with a headed chance as Tottenham looked for a comfort goal, but ultimately it was not needed.
Review: The Team Unconvincing but Defending Stands Out
It proved to be the result the club desired on their reappearance to the European stage, but it was hardly a ideal performance.
The goalie's costly error provided the supporters excited and could have been the base for a strong showing, but that failed to materialise.
Spurs' beginning to the term has been impressive, with eye-catching wins against one opponent and City, but there was also a disappointing display in a defeat to the Cherries.
They showed more parallels to that match with some weak periods of play and sloppy passes whenever they advanced.
Despite that, their defensive work was solid with Van de Ven and Rodrigo Bentancur making key tackles, notably in the second half.
Victory means Spurs are now undefeated in their last 21 fixtures in their stadium in Uefa competitions.
Top Player
Jersey: 37 the defender
Performance: 7.49
Related Topics
- Continental Football
- Spurs
- The Sport
