Tottenham Hotspur bowed out of the Champions League at the last-16 stage despite a 3-2 home victory over Atlético Madrid on Wednesday night, losing 7-5 on aggregate. The result was not enough to overturn a 5-2 deficit from the first leg in Spain, where Atlético raced into a 4-0 lead after 22 minutes.
Spurs, under manager Igor Tudor, showed spirit and intent, with Xavi Simons scoring twice, including a stunning long-range curler, and Randal Kolo Muani also on target. However, missed chances proved costly, with Mathys Tel, Pedro Porro, and Kolo Muani all squandering golden opportunities to level the tie on the night.
Atletico, led by an outstanding Julián Alvarez who scored and assisted, were never truly threatened. Alvarez equalised after Kolo Muani's opener and set up David Hancko for the visitors' second goal. Despite the defeat, Spurs can take heart from their performance, which saw them finish their European home campaign with five wins from five and extend their unbeaten run at the stadium to 25 matches.
The focus now shifts to Premier League survival, with a crucial match against Nottingham Forest on Sunday. Tottenham, who have struggled domestically this season, remain in the relegation battle. Tudor's side showed signs of improvement, particularly in midfield where Archie Gray impressed, but their finishing let them down.
Large sections of the stadium were empty, with attendance around 10,000 below capacity, but those present applauded the team off at half-time and full-time. Spurs will hope to carry this fighting spirit into the league as they seek to secure their top-flight status.
