Destiny Udogie produces a solid display in defence for Tottenham against AZ Alkmaar
Tottenham Hotspur edged AZ Alkmaar at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Thursday evening in the UEFA Europa League.
Richarlison scored the solitary goal of the game from the penalty spot in the second half, helping Ange Postecoglou’s side make it three wins from three in the Europa League campaign.
It was a hard-fought victory in the end and many would think it could have gone either way, but Ange Postecoglou and Co. will take the result and move on. One player who shone under the lights away against the Dutch side was Destiny Udogie.
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Big Ange had made as many as nine changes to his side, but Destiny Udogie kept hold of his position at left-back. He starred at the back for the hosts, playing the full 90 minutes and helping the team keep a clean sheet.
The Italy international won 7/8 duels, made two interceptions, two tackles and blocked a shot. He was effective with the ball at his feet on the night by having 75 touches and completing 46/53 passes with an 87 % pass accuracy. Going forward, Udogie made one key pass and completed two successful dribbles. (Stats courtesy: SofaScore)
Udogie has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most promising young full-backs since arriving at the Hotspur Way in 2023. The left-back delivered consistent performances in his debut campaign at Tottenham, helping Spurs clinch a Europa League spot.
However, the youngster from Verona hasn’t been at his sublime best so far this season and was at fault for West Ham United’s opener in his team’s 4-1 Premier League win last weekend. Udogie’s display against AZ Alkmaar was the perfect response to his critics and proves that given more time and maturity, he has the potential to become the best in his position across Europe.
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Hopefully, the Italian’s performance in midweek can become the catalyst for other positive games in a Tottenham top. There will be fluctuating performances as he is only 21 but the best thing about Udogie is he doesn’t get fazed and wants to keep improving under Big Ange’s watchful eyes.
