Match Report: Ferencvaros 1-2 Tottenham Hotspur - was the tactical preview accurate?

Spurs’ Young Guns Shine as Postecoglou’s Spurs Withstand Ferencvaros Pressure in Budapest

Four Spurs youngsters were thrust into the spotlight, playing key roles in a tense UEFA Europa League encounter that saw Brennan Johnson’s late strike seal victory. 

Pape Matar Sarr’s first-half opener set the tone, but Ferencvaros made life difficult with relentless pressure and a late consolation goal. 

Despite a chaotic game, the young players proved their mettle under pressure, reflecting a well-executed tactical plan that paid off.

Tottenham Hotspur secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ferencvaros in this league phase of the Europa League (UEL), with the young talents making significant contributions in what was a challenging fixture in Budapest. 

Key Contributions from Youngsters:

1. Pape Matar Sarr: 

   The 22-year-old midfielder continued his impressive Europa League form, scoring his second goal in as many games. Sarr capitalized on a defensive lapse to give Spurs the lead in the 23rd minute, showing excellent composure to finish from close range. He was a commanding presence in the midfield, linking up play and providing stability under intense pressure from Ferencvaros’ aggressive press.

2. Will Lankshear:

   Making his full debut, the 19-year-old striker showed glimpses of his potential. Lankshear was involved in the build-up to Sarr’s goal and came close to scoring himself when he headed narrowly over the bar from a Timo Werner cross early on. Though he didn't get on the scoresheet, Lankshear’s movement and ability to hold up play were valuable for relieving pressure.

3. Lucas Bergvall:

   The Swedish teenager *18) slotted into midfield alongside Sarr and provided a calm presence in possession. Bergvall was instrumental in helping Spurs weather the early storm from Ferencvaros, showcasing his composure and ability to break up play. His energy and vision were key to Spurs’ control in midfield.

4. Mikey Moore:

   The 17-year-old winger’s direct style caused problems for the Ferencvaros defence throughout the first half. His involvement in Sarr’s goal, driving into the box and causing confusion among defenders, highlighted his impact on the game. Despite his age, Moore was unafraid to take on experienced opposition and was pivotal in setting up Brennan Johnson’s second-half goal. Needs to work on his defending.

5. Archie Gray:

   The 18-year-old showed his versatility by starting in central defence before switching to left-back in the second half. This tactical adjustment allowed Spurs to push forward with more energy and increased attacking thrust on the left side. Gray’s defensive positioning was solid, and his adventurous runs provided an additional option for Spurs to break down Ferencvaros’ defensive lines. Caught too many times out of position as a left-back which put us under pressure.

Handling the Pressure:

The young Spurs contingent was under immense pressure, especially in the first half, as Ferencvaros dominated possession in the opening twenty minutes. 

The Hungarian side had a goal disallowed for offside and tested Guglielmo Vicario multiple times, but the young Spurs team showed resilience. 

Their defensive structure and ability to absorb pressure were commendable, particularly when the hosts piled on the pressure after Varga’s late goal.

Was the Tactical Preview Accurate?

The tactical preview accurately identified Ferencvaros’ reliance on crosses and their susceptibility to high pressing, which Spurs exploited effectively. 

The preview highlighted the need to be wary of Ferencvaros’ aerial threat, which proved true as Varga’s disallowed goal came from a cross into the box. 

Spurs countered these tactics by fielding a compact midfield and forcing turnovers, which created the opportunities for Sarr and Johnson’s goals.

This win not only keeps Spurs on maximum points after two Europa League games but also serves as a testament to Ange Postecoglou’s faith in youth, as four teenagers started the match, the first time Tottenham had done so in Europe since 2009.

Throw-Ins Again

Did you notice their goal was a result of us losing the ball from our throw-in?

It resulted in a throw-in toFerencvaros and the next time we touched the ball, Vicario was picking it up out of the net.

It is glaringly obvious we need some throw-in routines.

COYS