Mauricio Pochettino handed Pep Guardiola his first Premier League loss as a manager in a brilliant Spurs performance at White Hart Lane. 

Line-Ups

Tottenham Hotspur

The home side started with in-form striker Heung Min Son starting up front. Dele Alli played along side Wanyama in the holding role while Lamela returned on the wing. Danny Rose and Kyle Walker also returned to the starting line-up.

Manchester City

With Kevin De Bruyne missing, David Silva started in an advanced role. Fernandinho and Fernando formed the base in midfield.

John Stones continued alongside Otamendi as Aguero led the line. Jesus Navas was handed a rare start on the wing.

First Half

The home side, as expected, started brightly and were buoyed by the loud home support. Manchester City had a great opportunity as Navas found Silva but the Spaniard’s shot was deflected wide. Tottenham deservedly took the lead in the 9th minute. Danny Rose’s fiery cross was hacked into his own net by Aleksandar Kolarov.

Spurs were intense and quick off the books. Aguero tested Lloris from a free kick on 30 minutes but Spurs doubled their advantage in the 37th minute through Dele Alli. The Englishman who has been having a comparatively quiet season thus far, was played in by Son and coolly finished. 

Second Half

Spurs came out after halftime looking intent to hand Guardiola his first loss as a City manager. Wanyama’s powerful shot was met by a good save from Bravo in the 48th minute. At the other end however, City remained a threat as Aguero’s shot was saved by Lloris onto the near post.

Gundogan was soon introduced in place of Fernando as Guardiola hoped the German would inject some urgency in City attacks. The excellent partnership of Vertonghen and Alderweireld however was easily able to handle City’s push for a goal.

Spurs should have extended their lead when they were awarded a penalty in the 65th minute. Alli was brought down in the area by Fernandinho and an argument ensued between Son and Lamela about who would take the spot kick. The Argentine took the penalty but his effort was saved by Claudio Bravo. City pushed for a goal in vain as Spurs held on to move closer to Guardiola’s side.

While it was an excellent win for Tottenham, the focus remains on City and whether this will affect their mentality. The international break will be welcome for Guardiola and Pochettino’s side no doubt will be high on morale. It also removes the feeling of City being runaway leaders with Tottenham, Arsenal and Liverpool close behind.

Picture Courtesy: independent.co.uk