Tottenham Hotspur played to a 2-2 draw with Bodo/Glimt, failing to add three points to their tally in the Champions League.
Tottenham did bounce back from two goals down to tie the game, but it was a missed opportunity for Thomas Frank’s men.
There were positives and negatives in what was an enthralling encounter. Read on as we analyse three things we learned from Tottenham’s clash with Bodo/Glimt.
Tottenham are a different side without Joao Palhinha
Frank opted to rest Joao Palhinha, who has been thrown in the deep end since his move to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and the Portuguese enforcer was sorely missed.
Rodrigo Bentancur is a solid midfielder, but there is a world of difference between him and Palhinha in the base of the engine room.
Palhinha is a destroyer who cuts out opposition attacks with ease. The sheer volume of tackling and duelling he does is outstanding. Spurs will miss that quality when he is not on the pitch.
We’ve discussed how Tottenham need a younger, capable, and natural understudy for Palhinha, and the lack of one showed in this game.
Spurs show noteworthy resolve in comeback draw
Tottenham demonstrated remarkable resolve in battling back from a two-goal deficit to earn a draw against Bodo/Glimt. That might not have been possible last term under Ange Postecoglou.
Spurs are mentally stronger, and it will be crucial in the long haul. The boys were determined to leave Norway with something, and it showed. That change in mentality should earn Frank praise.
A draw away to Bodo/Glimt may not grab headlines, but the manner in which Spurs clawed their way back speaks volumes.
It’s the sort of character shift that could make all the difference in a gruelling campaign, both in Europe and the Premier League.
Xavi Simons still needs more time to find his groove
Xavi Simons joined the North London outfit this summer for a significant sum, and although he has shown flashes of brilliance, he is still adjusting to his new teammates.
The Dutchman came on with 30 minutes to go and met a game ripe for the taking, but struggled to have a positive influence on proceedings.
Simons won only one of his three ground duels and failed to connect with his two attempted crosses. He was not on the same wavelength as his teammates.
Simons clearly has the quality, but bedding into a new system and forming an understanding with those around him will take time.
Spurs will be patient, and rightly so, as the 22-year-old continues to adapt to his new surroundings. For now, flashes of promise will have to suffice while he grows into his role.
Stats from Sofascore