Spurs Half-Time Ratings vs Leicester City: Tottenham Dominates the First Forty-Five
Tottenham Hotspur kicked off their Premier League campaign with a strong showing in the first half against Leicester City at the King Power Stadium. Ange Postecoglou’s side leads 1-0 at the break, thanks to a goal from Pedro Porro. Here’s how we rated the Tottenham players after the opening forty-five minutes of action.
Guglielmo Vicario: 6/10
The Italian goalkeeper has had a quiet first half, largely untroubled by Leicester’s attack. Apart from a single headed clearance, Vicario hasn’t been called into serious action. His positioning and command of the area have been solid, ensuring that the Foxes have been kept at bay. However, with Leicester posing little threat, it’s difficult to assess his full capabilities. Spurs will be hoping that his lack of involvement continues into the second half.
Pedro Porro: 7/10
Pedro Porro has been one of Tottenham’s standout performers in the first half. His crossing has been pinpoint, consistently putting Leicester’s defense under pressure. The highlight of his performance came when he put Spurs ahead with an opportunistic goal, albeit somewhat fortuitously as the ball came off his shoulder. Nevertheless, his attacking intent and delivery have been crucial in keeping Leicester pinned back.
Cristian Romero: 7/10
The Argentine center-back has been a rock at the heart of Tottenham’s defense. Romero nearly doubled Spurs’ lead when he headed narrowly wide from a Pedro Porro cross. His duels with Jamie Vardy have been one-sided, with Romero coming out on top every time. His composure and physicality have ensured that Leicester’s attack has been largely nullified.
Micky van de Ven: 7/10
Nicknamed the “Rolls Royce” for his smooth and composed style of play, Micky van de Ven has lived up to that reputation. The Dutch defender has been unflappable under pressure, distributing the ball efficiently and making crucial interceptions when needed. His presence has brought a sense of calm to the backline, allowing Spurs to build from the back with confidence.
Destiny Udogie: 7/10
Destiny Udogie has handled Leicester’s rare forays down the right flank with ease. The young full-back has shown great maturity, particularly in his positioning and tackling. However, he had a slight lapse in concentration just before half-time, which could have led to trouble had he been booked for a challenge. Overall, Udogie has been solid, and Spurs will hope he maintains his focus in the second half.
Rodrigo Bentancur: 7/10
Bentancur has been instrumental in Tottenham’s midfield, both in possession and out of it. His headed flick-on from a James Maddison corner looked destined for the net until Wilfred Ndidi’s crucial clearance. Bentancur has done an excellent job of keeping the ball moving, linking up play between defense and attack. His work rate off the ball has also been commendable, helping Spurs regain possession quickly and stifle Leicester’s midfield.
Pape Matar Sarr: 7/10
Pape Matar Sarr has formed a formidable partnership with Bentancur in the middle of the park. The Senegalese midfielder has been industrious, breaking up Leicester’s play and driving forward with purpose. His energy and tenacity have been vital in ensuring that Spurs dominate the midfield battle. Sarr’s performance has been a reflection of his growing confidence in a Tottenham shirt.
James Maddison: 8/10
Playing against his former club, Maddison has been at the heart of everything positive for Spurs. His performance has been reminiscent of his early days at Leicester, full of creativity and vision. Maddison delivered a beautiful cross that led to Pedro Porro’s goal and has been consistent with his set-piece delivery. His ability to find pockets of space and create chances has been crucial in Tottenham’s attacking play.
Heung-Min Son: 7/10
Back in his familiar position on the left wing, Son has looked comfortable and dangerous. The South Korean star has been a constant threat, linking up well with his teammates and delivering dangerous crosses into the box. His movement off the ball has also been impressive, dragging Leicester’s defenders out of position and creating space for others. Son’s influence on the game is growing, and he’ll be key to Spurs’ hopes of extending their lead.
Dominic Solanke: 7/10
Dominic Solanke has had a mixed first half, showing flashes of his potential but lacking the finishing touch. He had his first real chance just seven minutes into the game, meeting a Son cross with a header that he’ll be disappointed not to have converted. Solanke has had a couple of other half-chances but has been unable to find the back of the net. His link-up play has been promising, and Spurs will be looking for him to be more clinical in the second half.
Brennan Johnson: 7/10
Brennan Johnson has been lively on the right wing, offering pace and directness that has troubled Leicester’s defense. He came agonizingly close to scoring with a volley that went just wide, showcasing his ability to create chances out of nothing. Johnson’s work rate and willingness to track back have also been important in helping Spurs maintain their shape defensively.
