Xavi Simons stole the show as Tottenham end home drought with 2-0 win against Brentford.
Xavi Simons delivered a statement performance as Tottenham finally ended their dismal home run with a comfortable 2-0 victory over struggling Brentford at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
The Dutch international was at the heart of everything positive for Thomas Frank‘s side, capping his dominant display with a goal and an assist to sink his former manager Keith Andrews. Tottenham controlled proceedings from start to finish against a Brentford side that rarely threatened, with the visitors struggling to create any meaningful chances throughout the 90 minutes.
This was the response Frank desperately needed after a series of poor performances at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Spurs looked sharper, more cohesive, and crucially, more clinical in front of goal. The defensive solidity combined with attacking intent suggests Frank may finally be finding the right formula at home.
Pedro Porro and Mohammed Kudus were also exceptional, providing constant width and creativity that stretched Brentford’s defense to breaking point. Randal Kolo Muani came close to adding to the scoreline on multiple occasions, demonstrating his improving understanding of Frank’s system even if the goals continue to elude him.
We now take a look at how the Spurs stars fared on the night.
Tottenham Hotspur Player Ratings
Guglielmo Vicario (7/10): A quiet afternoon for the Italian goalkeeper, who was barely tested by a toothless Brentford attack. Vicario commanded his area confidently and distributed the ball quickly to launch counter attacks. His positioning was excellent and he dealt comfortably with the few crosses that came his way.
Pedro Porro (8/10): Excellent performance from the Spanish full back. Porro was relentless down the right flank, delivering dangerous crosses and linking brilliantly with Kudus. His attacking output was outstanding, constantly pushing Brentford back and creating space for teammates. Defensively solid when required, rarely giving Kevin Schade any opportunity to threaten.
Cristian Romero (7/10): The Argentine captain led by example with a composed display at the heart of defense. Romero dealt comfortably with Igor Thiago’s physical presence and organized the backline superbly. He picked up a yellow card for a reckless challenge but otherwise controlled the game with his usual authority and aggression.
Micky van de Ven (7/10): The Dutchman was dominant aerially and used his pace to snuff out any Brentford counter attacks before they developed. Van de Ven looked assured in possession, stepping forward confidently when space opened up. His partnership with Romero continues to grow stronger with each passing week.
Djed Spence (7/10): Solid performance from the left back who provided good balance defensively while supporting attacks when possible. Spence was rarely troubled by Dango Ouattara and showed maturity in his positioning. His ability to tuck inside and form a back three allowed Porro more freedom to attack.
Archie Gray (6/10): The young midfielder worked hard in his deeper role, protecting the back four and recycling possession efficiently. Gray showed glimpses of quality but was overshadowed by more creative teammates. He kept things ticking over without truly imposing himself on the contest.
Rodrigo Bentancur (7/10): Strong showing from the Uruguayan who controlled the tempo in midfield. Bentancur broke up Brentford’s rare attacks and distributed the ball intelligently to initiate Spurs moves. His experience and composure helped Tottenham dominate possession throughout.
Mohammed Kudus (8/10): Outstanding from the Ghanaian winger who tormented Brentford’s left side all afternoon. Kudus showcased his dribbling brilliance, constantly beating defenders and creating chances for teammates. His movement and link up play with Porro down the right was a constant threat. Unlucky not to get on the scoresheet himself.
Xavi Simons (9/10 – Man of the Match): Magnificent performance from the Dutch playmaker who finally showed why Tottenham invested heavily in bringing him to north London. Simons orchestrated everything in the final third, gliding past challenges with effortless technique. His assist for Richarlison’s opener demonstrated his vision and quality, while his goal showcased composure and clinical finishing. This was the statement performance Frank has been waiting for.
Richarlison (7/10): The Brazilian worked tirelessly up front and took his goal well to break the deadlock. Richarlison’s movement caused problems for Brentford’s defense and his hold up play allowed teammates to join attacks. He linked play intelligently and showed the competitive edge Frank demands from his striker.
Randal Kolo Muani (7/10): Impressive showing from the French forward despite not finding the net. Kolo Muani had two excellent chances saved by Caoimhin Kelleher, including a close range header that the goalkeeper did brilliantly to keep out. His movement was intelligent and he combined well with Richarlison. The goals will come if he maintains this level of performance.