🔗 Share this article

Thomas Frank savored a successful European debut thanks to a calamitous blunder by Villarreal keeper Luiz Junior.

Uncontested, the Villarreal player dropped Lucas Bergvall's cross into the goal, handing Tottenham a perfect opening.

This was former Brentford gaffer Frank's maiden fixture in the event, but his Tottenham side were tested at points before the half.

An important challenge by the defender stopped ex-Arsenal player Pepe from scoring, while the Villarreal player sent a shot off target.

But only a stop by Junior denied Tottenham from scoring a another when he saved the midfielder's strike.

The Spanish team pushed forward in the latter period, but Spurs defended superbly to keep out them.

Richarlison could have done better with a headed chance as Spurs sought a second goal, but finally it was unnecessary.

Review: Tottenham Unconvincing but Defence Stands Out

It proved to be the result Spurs wanted on their return to the European stage, but it was hardly a perfect display.

The goalie's regrettable blunder got the fans roused and could have been the foundation for a dominant showing, but that was not the case.

Spurs' opening to the campaign has been impressive, with eye-catching victories against the Hammers and Manchester City, but there was also a concerning result in a loss to the Cherries.

The team displayed more parallels to that fixture with several weak phases of play and careless passes whenever they attacked.

Nevertheless, their defending was solid with the defender and another player making vital tackles, particularly in the later stages.

The win means the club are now unbeaten in their last 21 matches at home in continental competitions.

Top Player

Jersey: 37 Van de Ven

Average Rating: 7.49

---

Also of Interest

• Continental Football
• Tottenham Hotspur
• Football