Tottenham Hotspur secured a 3-2 victory over Atlético Madrid in the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie, but it was not enough to overturn a 5-2 first-leg deficit, resulting in a 7-5 aggregate defeat. The win, Spurs' first under manager Igor Tudor, provided a boost in confidence ahead of a crucial Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest.
Xavi Simons, back in the starting XI, scored twice, including a stunning curler from distance and a late penalty. Randal Kolo Muani also found the net for Spurs, who showed attacking intent in Tudor's back-four system. However, missed chances proved costly, with Mathys Tel and Pedro Porro among those failing to convert key opportunities.
Atletico, led by an outstanding Julián Alvarez who scored and assisted, were never truly in danger of losing the tie. Alvarez equalised for the visitors before David Hancko put them ahead on the night, though Spurs fought back to level and then take the lead through Simons' penalty.
Despite the European exit, Spurs remain unbeaten in their last 25 home matches in European competition, with five wins out of five at this venue this season. The focus now shifts to the Premier League, where they face Nottingham Forest on Sunday in a match that could prove pivotal in their fight to avoid relegation.
Manager Igor Tudor praised his team's performance, saying they played with liberation and front-footed intent. The challenge for Spurs is to replicate this form in the league, where they have struggled this season. The win over Atletico may provide a platform for a turnaround, but the real test begins against Forest.
