Harry Kane starred as Tottenham cruised to a 3-0 win over Pacos de Ferreira to progress to the group phase of the UEFA Europa Conference League.
Harry Kane returned to the starting lineup for the first this season and immediately helped settle matters with Pacos de Ferreira. The England captain’s starring performance helped Spurs turn around a 1-0 deficit from the first leg to progress into the next phase of the UEFA Europa Conference League.
Kane scored twice and reinstated his reputation among Tottenham’s fanbase after a turbulent summer. Back in the frame and the lineup, Kane, alongside other fringe stars, helped Tottenham overcome Pacos and advance in the tournament. Harry Winks and Giovani Lo Celso also had key roles to play in the game, while new signing Bryan Gil got an assist for his decent performance.
The win sends Tottenham into the Conference League group stages, with the third tier of European tournament representing one of the best chances for Spurs to win a trophy at the end of the season. Here are the player ratings from Tottenham’s win over Pacos de Ferreira
Pierluigi Gollini: 6/10
It was Gollini’s second competitive start for Spurs and he was better than the last game. Dodgy passes further complicated some early nerves. It was not an overly comfortable game, but a few good saves, especially around the 7th minute, will improve his confidence.
Matt Doherty: 7/10
After a difficult first season, Doherty would be happy to play a good game where he could influence proceedings. A good match, where he should have got an assist, showed that Doherty is very good at right wing-back rather than an orthodox full-back.
Eric Dier: 6.5/10
We did not predict his inclusion, although Dier provides a much better balance alongside new signing Romero. Dier was a steady presence at the back, especially in a three-man defence.
Cristian Romero: 7/10
If the first leg clash was somewhat a bad game for Romero, he made amends in the second leg. Showed great comfort on the ball while portraying his aggressive side in defence. The Argentine also displayed his ball-playing skills, often getting attacks going. Should build some confidence towards becoming a Premier League starter soon.
Ben Davies: 7/10
He played on the left side of the central defence besides Romero and Dier. While Davies was a strong defensive presence, some of his passes between the lines were wonderful while showing good skills with the ball when in possession.
Ryan Sessegnon: 6.5/10
Like Doherty, the wing-back role seems to fit Sessegnon better than being a full-back. A positive display from the former Fulham prodigy as he tried to get things going on his side of the pitch. Will do good for his confidence as he tries to secure a place in the side long-term.
Harry Winks: 7.5/10
Winks in midfield put up a hard-working display. He created the first goal with good play while keeping the team ticking when in possession. It will take many more performances like these with consistency for him to secure a place again in the Premier League lineups for Spurs.
Giovani Lo Celso: 8.5/10
Gio adds a third ?
? @PremierSportsTV pic.twitter.com/9eLS9bgAna
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) August 26, 2021
It looks like Lo Celso is coming back into form after a somewhat difficult period at the club. The Argentine was Tottenham’s best creative player, always willing to make things happen. He neatly set up Kane’s second goal, which was a reward for his performance on the evening.
Lucas Moura: 7.5/10
Moura has found form this season and continued with his attacking displays on Thursday. His understanding with Doherty also produced lively moments on the right side. Showed some sloppiness with passing but made up with his work rate.
Bryan Gil: 7.5/10
Gil is an exciting, raw talent that Spurs have gotten their hands on. After a decent first leg, Gil came to the fore in London. He earned an assist in the game while showing his creative side. Spurs looked good with Gil and Lo Celso pulling the creative strings.
Harry Kane: 9/10
Back in the team, back among the goals. Harry Kane led the team by example with two good goals to help Spurs through to the group phase of the Conference League. He should be ready to lead the team at the weekend in the Premier League.
Two goals for Harry Kane this evening ⚽️⚽️
Opening his Spurs account for the season ?#UECL pic.twitter.com/UVwaq4wQJO
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) August 26, 2021
SUBSTITUTES
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg: 6/10
He came on to help control the game better and protect the lead. Did fine.
Son Heung-min: 6/10
Son looked lively when he came on but missed two good chances to score.
Delle Alli: N/A
Not long on the field to get a rating.