Spurs ratings: Kinsky shines on debut as Bergvall impresses again
Tottenham Hotspur secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Liverpool in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final, with Lucas Bergvall scoring a dramatic late winner.
The match was a testament to Tottenham’s determination and tactical discipline as they managed to keep a clean sheet and establish a slight advantage ahead of the second leg at Anfield on February 6. Despite several challenges, including an early injury to Rodrigo Bentancur, the team displayed remarkable resilience and focus to edge out the Premier League giants.
The highlight of the match came in the 85th minute when Bergvall, who had been a dynamic presence throughout, capitalized on a layoff from Dominic Solanke to score the decisive goal. His clinical finish followed a controversial moment where he avoided a second yellow card for a foul on Kostas Tsimikas.
The teenager’s performance showcased his growing maturity and knack for stepping up in crucial moments, earning him widespread praise. His energy and defensive contributions earlier in the game laid the groundwork for his match-winning strike, solidifying his reputation as one of Tottenham’s rising stars.
Goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky also had an impressive debut. The Czech shot-stopper demonstrated composure and sharp reflexes, particularly in the dying moments when he made a stunning save to deny Darwin Núñez.
His assured distribution from the back won over the Tottenham fans, and his performance added a new dimension to the team’s buildup play. Kinsky’s presence between the posts proved pivotal in maintaining the clean sheet, a rare feat for Spurs this season.
Defensively, Tottenham showed grit and determination. Radu Dragusin and Archie Gray formed a solid partnership at the back, with both players making crucial tackles and blocks. Dragusin displayed moments of nervy decision-making but recovered well to hold his ground.
Gray, who often stepped out from defense with confidence, showed why he’s regarded as a versatile player capable of influencing play from deep positions. Djed Spence contributed significantly on the flanks, using his quick feet and close control to evade challenges and create opportunities, particularly in the first half.
Pedro Porro, operating in an advanced role on the right wing, had a mixed evening. While his long-range passing created several chances, he missed a golden opportunity to extend Tottenham’s lead in the second half after an Alisson Becker error.
Yves Bissouma, tasked with anchoring the midfield, delivered a workmanlike performance, though he occasionally struggled in duels. Despite these moments, he played an integral role in breaking up Liverpool’s attacks and maintaining possession under pressure.
Rodrigo Bentancur’s injury in the opening minutes was a major blow for Tottenham. The Uruguayan midfielder suffered a head injury after an awkward fall during an uncontested header, requiring a lengthy stoppage before being stretchered off.
His absence forced a tactical adjustment, but the team adapted admirably to the setback. Tottenham later confirmed that Bentancur was conscious and undergoing further medical checks, with fans and teammates alike wishing him a speedy recovery.
In attack, Heung-min Son and Dejan Kulusevski had relatively subdued performances. Son, often a key figure in Tottenham’s offensive setup, appeared hesitant in his forward runs and was substituted in the 72nd minute.
Kulusevski, while not directly involved in the game’s decisive moments, showed his reliability when dropping deep to link play and carry the ball forward. Dominic Solanke, however, stood out with his ability to hold up the ball and bring others into play. His crucial assist for Bergvall’s goal highlighted his importance to Tottenham’s attacking structure.
The win puts Tottenham in a strong position ahead of the return leg but leaves no room for complacency. Anfield remains one of the toughest venues in football, and Liverpool will undoubtedly look to overturn the deficit with their formidable home support.
However, Tottenham can take confidence from this performance, which showcased their resilience, tactical intelligence, and the emergence of young talents like Bergvall and Kinsky.
With key players potentially returning from injury in time for the second leg, Spurs have a genuine opportunity to reach the Carabao Cup final and contend for silverware this season.