A brilliant performance from Xavi Simons propelled Tottenham Hotspur to a crucial 2-0 Premier League victory over Brentford on Saturday, ending a dismal run of home form that had stretched back to August.
Simons Seizes His Chance
Under mounting pressure after a series of poor results, manager Thomas Frank handed a first start since November 8 to the Dutch international, a decision that paid immediate dividends. Simons, a £52 million signing, was central to Tottenham's positive intent from the outset at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
After early efforts from Micky van de Ven and Richarlison were thwarted, Simons made the breakthrough in the 25th minute. Following a driving run, he showed superb awareness to pick out Richarlison at the back post from Pedro Porro's excellent pass, allowing the Brazilian to slam home. It was Spurs' first shot on target in the first half of a Premier League game in five weeks.
A Moment of Magic Seals the Points
Tottenham were not content with a single-goal lead. Just before half-time, Simons produced a moment of individual brilliance to double the advantage. After initially losing possession to Mikkel Damsgaard, he instantly won it back from Sepp van den Berg. The attacker then embarked on a powerful run from the halfway line, leaving Yehor Yarmoliuk in his wake, before drilling a low finish into the bottom corner.
The goal, arriving in the 43rd minute, was his first for the club in his 19th appearance. Simons celebrated in trademark style with his 'phone call' celebration on top of an advertising hoarding.
Home Comforts Restored
The second half saw Spurs continue to press, with Djed Spence and Mohammed Kudus forcing saves from Brentford goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher. The visitors, for whom in-form striker Igor Thiago had tested Guglielmo Vicario in the first half, offered little sustained threat.
A minor moment of discord occurred late on when Kudus was reprimanded by captain Cristian Romero for showboating, but it did little to dampen the spirits. The final whistle confirmed a first home league win since August and only a fourth in the Premier League throughout 2025, providing vital relief for Frank and his squad.
