Tottenham managed to get things back on track with an impressive performance against Copenhagen
Credit where it is due, Thomas Frank’s Tottenham really stepped up when it mattered most and managed to correct their mistakes against FC Copenhagen in the Champions League on Tuesday night. The Lilywhites controlled the match from start to finish and were fully deserving of the victory once the final whistle sounded. They played on the front foot throughout, putting the Danish side under pressure right from the opening minute.
Brennan Johnson opened the scoring for Spurs in the 19th minute, showing great composure to beat the goalkeeper and place the ball into the net. Wilson Odobert then doubled the lead after Randal Kolo Muani unselfishly created the chance with some excellent work in the build-up. Tottenham were reduced to ten men just minutes later, with Johnson receiving a red card for a reckless challenge in midfield.
However, despite going down to ten, Tottenham continued to grow stronger as the match progressed. Micky van de Ven produced a remarkable solo run from his own box to the opposite end of the pitch to make it 3-0, effectively putting the contest beyond doubt. Joao Palhinha then added a fourth goal in the final moments, sealing a comprehensive victory for the North London side.
Thomas Frank pleased with Tottenham’s ‘bounce-back’ mentality
Last weekend’s performance against Chelsea served as a wake-up call for Tottenham, and they responded brilliantly with a convincing win against Copenhagen. Thomas Frank’s team made a clear statement by playing fluid, attacking football at home to extend their unbeaten run in the Champions League. They now have eight points from their opening four matches in the competition.
Speaking about the players’ mentality and the overall performance against Copenhagen, Thomas Frank said in his post-match presser (via TNT Sports),
“I am very happy with a lot of things. I think in life and football after a bad performance or situation it is about how you react. We call it a bounce-back mentality and our players have had a great bounce-back mentality in the last few days they have wanted to turn things around and win, which we did.”
The Spurs boss added,
“I think it was an impressive win because we controlled the game from minute one. We got the red card and the players found another level which was super impressive.”
Frank explained that the primary objective was to respond positively after last weekend’s disappointing showing against Chelsea. The Danish manager felt his players demonstrated a strong bounce-back mentality and were eager to put things right. He was especially pleased with how the team continued to attack even after being reduced to ten men, earning an important statement victory at home in the Champions League.
The players must now shift their focus to the next challenge and build on this performance. Spurs face an in-form Manchester United side in the Premier League next. The Lilywhites will need to be at their best if they are to secure a positive result. Considering Tottenham’s struggles at home in the league this season, the Red Devils will be confident of causing further problems at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
