‘Unbelievable’ 85% ace shows Ange what he’s been missing at Tottenham after what he did

Tottenham’s season has been a rollercoaster, with Ange Postecoglou’s team currently sitting 10th in the Premier League. The campaign has seen moments where hope seemed lost for the Australian manager, but Sunday’s performance against Southampton offered a glimmer of optimism.

While the Europa League draw against Rangers still lingers, the 1-1 result no longer casts as heavy a shadow when paired with such a commanding league victory. If Tottenham, led by James Maddison, can replicate this form across all competitions, they may yet salvage an impressive end to the season.

The emphatic 5-0 win over Southampton marked a significant moment for Tottenham. Maddison, a key figure in the triumph, scored twice, showcasing his ability to dictate play and deliver in critical moments.

His second goal of the evening particularly caught the attention of pundits, with Peter Crouch praising it as an “unbelievable finish.” Speaking on TNT Sports 1, Crouch highlighted Maddison’s brilliance despite Southampton’s defensive shortcomings, emphasizing that Tottenham’s attacking performance deserved recognition.

Maddison’s contributions in the Southampton match underline his importance to Postecoglou’s system. The attacking midfielder was instrumental, playing in his natural role and thriving. He maintained an 85% pass accuracy during his 77 minutes on the pitch, completing 41 passes and providing two key passes.

His ability to control the game from midfield was evident, with 62 touches of the ball and a 100% success rate in dribbles attempted. These attacking contributions were complemented by his defensive efforts, winning 77% of his ground duels and making a tackle. Despite losing possession 11 times and being fouled twice, Maddison’s overall impact far outweighed any minor imperfections.

The performance raises questions about Maddison’s role in Postecoglou’s plans. This season, the midfielder has started 15 out of Tottenham’s 23 games but has often been substituted early, limiting his influence.

The statistics from the Southampton match, combined with his ability to perform under pressure, suggest that Maddison should be a cornerstone of Tottenham’s strategy moving forward. His creativity, work rate, and knack for delivering in critical moments make him an indispensable asset.

The broader challenge for Tottenham lies in maintaining consistency. While the win over Southampton provided a morale boost, it came against a team battling relegation.

The true test will be replicating this level of performance against stronger opposition and across multiple competitions. The Europa League draw with Rangers served as a reminder of the team’s vulnerabilities, but Sunday’s result shows they have the potential to bounce back when it matters.

Postecoglou’s task now is to build on this momentum. Maddison’s role in the team will be pivotal, but the manager must also ensure that the rest of the squad steps up. Tottenham’s defensive solidity, attacking fluidity, and overall team cohesion will determine how far they can go this season. The performance against Southampton set a benchmark, but consistency will be the key to turning a promising result into sustained success.

Maddison’s ability to influence games extends beyond individual statistics. His presence on the pitch elevates those around him, creating opportunities and inspiring confidence in his teammates.

This intangible quality makes him not just a player but a leader, someone who can drive the team forward in challenging moments. For Postecoglou, recognizing this and maximizing Maddison’s contributions will be essential in navigating the rest of the season.

Looking ahead, Tottenham must focus on building a balanced team capable of competing on all fronts. The win against Southampton highlighted the potential within the squad, but it also underscored the importance of strategic planning and tactical flexibility. Maddison’s performance was a standout, but it was part of a broader team effort that showcased what Spurs can achieve when firing on all cylinders.

If Maddison maintains this form, it’s hard to envision Postecoglou’s position coming under threat. The attacking midfielder has proven himself as a game-changer, capable of delivering when it matters most.

His partnership with other key players will be crucial as Tottenham aims to climb the Premier League table and make an impact in Europe. Postecoglou’s ability to harness Maddison’s talents and integrate them into a cohesive team strategy will define the remainder of Tottenham’s season.

Tottenham’s journey this season has been anything but straightforward, but moments like Sunday’s victory offer hope for a brighter future. The challenge now lies in translating that hope into consistent performances and tangible results.

Maddison’s brilliance will undoubtedly play a central role in that effort, providing a beacon of quality and leadership as Spurs look to turn their season around. For Postecoglou, the path forward is clear: build around Maddison, instill consistency, and unlock the full potential of a squad brimming with talent.