Tottenham Hotspur's recent 2-1 defeat against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League has left fans and players alike disappointed. Speaking to the BBC post-match show, Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou reflected on the team's performance, stating that Wolves were outstanding in their counter-attacking. He further noted that Tottenham 'paid the price' for two disappointing moments during the match.
Ange Postecoglou, Tottenham Hotspur manager, said:
“Both goals are disappointing from our point of view. We paid the price for not being as concentrated or disciplined in our football.”
Throughout the game, it was evident that Wolves were superior. Their compact organisation, coupled with Brighton’s man-to-man marking and Brentford’s ability to force Spurs into a fragmented game, made it difficult for Tottenham to maintain control. Despite a few good counter-attacks from Spurs before and after Gomes’ second goal, they were ultimately undone following Yves Bissouma’s careless touch.
In contrast to their last two matches against Brentford and Brighton where they managed a win despite a poor start, this time around Wolves ensured no such escape for Tottenham.
Injuries have greatly impacted Tottenham’s play this season
The injury rulings of Pedro Porro and Destiny Udogie provided a significant setback for Tottenham ahead of their match against Wolves. Although these players are expected back soon enough for next month's Premier League comeback match against Crystal Palace, their absence was felt deeply in this encounter.
April and early May will see Tottenham facing some tough opponents including Newcastle United, Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool. Last year saw them knocked out by Newcastle and Liverpool during a similar streak which severely impacted their chances at playing in European Championship.
Therefore acquiring points now is critical as they could be decisive come May. With Villa and Manchester United also vying for Champions League playoff spots alongside them now more than ever is when Spurs need to get back on track.
Tottenham need to find consistency for Champions League finish
A good team usually plays well, dictates the rules of the game, takes control from the first minute and never lets the other side gain a footing. Unfortunately, in recent months Spurs have drifted away from this ideal. This loss to Wolves may serve as a much-needed reminder to play better.
Tottenham Hotspur's defeat against Wolverhampton Wanderers was a result of several factors including superior opposition tactics and key player injuries. However, with tough matches ahead it is crucial that they learn from this experience and improve their performance if they are to secure their place in the Champions League spot.