Ange’s Bad days continue as Tottenham draw 2-2 with Wolves at N17
Tottenham ended 2024 on a disappointing note, being held to a 2-2 draw by Wolves at N17. Ange Postecoglou’s side once again faltered in securing maximum points, raising serious concerns about their ability to defend leads. Despite a promising first-half performance, Spurs conceded a late equaliser, leaving fans and the manager visibly frustrated.
The match began with Wolves taking an early lead through Hwang Hee-Chan, whose thunderous strike from outside the box stunned the home crowd. Tottenham responded promptly, with Rodrigo Bentancur heading home from a well-executed corner to level the score. Brennan Johnson won a penalty soon after, but skipper Son Heung-Min squandered the opportunity. Johnson quickly made amends, however, scoring moments later to give Spurs a 2-1 advantage heading into halftime.
Postecoglou’s team selection raised some eyebrows, with key players like James Maddison and Pape Sarr starting on the bench. Matters worsened when Destiny Udogie was forced off at halftime due to an injury, prompting Sergio Reguilón—making a rare appearance after a prolonged absence—to step in. Despite the setbacks, Spurs managed to hold their lead through most of the second half.
However, the closing minutes proved costly. Wolves ramped up the pressure, and a defensive lapse allowed Jørgen Strand Larsen to net a dramatic equaliser from a tight angle in the 87th minute, silencing the home supporters. Tottenham’s attempts to reclaim the lead, including a blocked shot from Dejan Kulusevski, fell short.
The result leaves Spurs sitting 11th in the Premier League table, further denting their hopes of European qualification. With injuries mounting and squad depth under scrutiny, Postecoglou faces increasing pressure to steady the ship as the new year approaches.
Tottenham’s player ratings from the frustrating draw
Fraser Forster – (7/10) Made a crucial save late in the game but could do little about Strand Larsen’s equaliser. Looked shaky at times, especially when Wolves pressed
Pedro Porro – (6/10) Struggled defensively and couldn’t offer much going forward. His passing was often too risky
Archie Gray -(7/10) Youngster was solid in defence but was often under pressure, unable to prevent Wolves’ attacks in the second half.
Radu Dragusin – (7/10) Handled air duels very well. Did his job without any major errors, but couldn’t prevent the defensive lapses leading to Wolves’ equaliser
Destiny Udogie – (7/10) Struggled defensively, and limped off with an injury early in the second half. Injury scares as Tottenham will be missing five defensive players if the Italian is injured
Rodrigo Bentancur – (7/10) Scored Tottenham’s first goal and was a key part of the midfield battle. He was one of the better players in today’s thriller
Yves Bissouma – (5/10) Struggled to prove himself in midfield. His impact was limited before being substituted, failing to provide the necessary energy or stability to control the game. He looked off the pace in the middle, particularly as Wolves pushed forward in the second half.
Dejan Kulusevski – (7/10) Made a number of dangerous runs but couldn’t find the final touch.
Son Heung-Min – (5/10) Substituted unexpectedly. His performance was lacklustre, and Spurs missed his leadership and the penalty which could have won them the game
Brennan Johnson – (7/10) Lively and creative but faded in the second half as Spurs failed to control the game. His goal in the first half was the high point of the day.
Dominic Solanke – (7/10) Put in a good shift but didn’t manage to capitalise on Spurs’ limited chances.
Substitutes
Sergio Reguilón – (7/10) Provided energy and balance after coming on but couldn’t impact the score line decisively
James Maddison – (7/10) Brought creativity and hit the woodwork but couldn’t find a winner
Pape Matar Sarr – (7/10) As usual was obviously better in defence than in attack
Timo Werner – (7/10) Made some promising runs but was largely ineffective in front of goal.
