Tottenham Hotspur managed to escape with a hard-fought point in their Premier League clash with Bournemouth, clawing back from a two-goal deficit to secure a dramatic 2-2 draw. Despite a sluggish start that saw them under intense pressure early on, Ange Postecoglou’s side found a way to respond in the latter stages of the match, thanks to Pape Matar Sarr and a late Son Heung-min penalty.
Bournemouth set the tempo from the opening whistle, forcing Spurs goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario into action within the first few minutes. The Italian shot-stopper had to be alert to deny Evanilson and Justin Kluivert as Tottenham struggled to settle. However, the visitors’ relentless pressure eventually paid off just before halftime when Marcus Tavernier turned in Milos Kerkez’s precise cross to give Bournemouth a well-deserved lead.
The second half began with more frustration for Spurs as Justin Kluivert found the back of the net, only to see his goal ruled out. But Bournemouth would not be denied for long, as Evanilson doubled their advantage in the 65th minute, finishing off a swift attacking move that left the Spurs defense scrambling.
Just when it seemed Tottenham were on the verge of a home defeat, Pape Matar Sarr breathed life into the contest, pouncing on a fortunate rebound to cut the deficit. With momentum shifting, Spurs pressed forward, and their efforts were rewarded when Son Heung-min kept his cool to convert a late penalty, securing an unlikely point for the hosts.
Here’s how the Tottenham players fared in a game that showcased both their vulnerabilities and resilience:
Tottenham Player Ratings (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper & Defenders
Guglielmo Vicario – 6
Had to be at his best in the opening exchanges, pulling off key saves to keep Spurs in the game. Was left exposed for both Bournemouth goals but prevented further damage.
Pedro Porro – 3
A frustrating afternoon for the full-back, who struggled defensively and was careless in possession. His misplaced pass led directly to the opening goal, and while he got forward well, his end product was lacking.
Cristian Romero – 3
An unusually shaky performance from the Argentine, who looked off the pace and was caught out in dangerous situations multiple times. His distribution was poor, and he was substituted in the second half.
Kevin Danso – 6
The summer signing was one of Spurs’ better defenders but still had difficulties containing Bournemouth’s attack. He showed composure on the ball but was at times slow to react to danger.
Djed Spence – 6
Put in a determined shift on the left flank but struggled to impose himself going forward. Worked hard, but his influence was limited by the team’s overall struggles.
Midfielders
Yves Bissouma – 3
A disappointing outing for the midfielder, who failed to provide control in the center of the park. His careless loss of possession before halftime led to a dangerous counter, forcing him to commit a cynical foul. Was rightly substituted at the break.
Rodrigo Bentancur – 3
A forgettable performance from the Uruguayan, who drifted through the game without making much of an impact. Failed to dictate the tempo and looked off the pace.
Pape Matar Sarr – 7
Struggled in the first half but came alive in the second. Played with more urgency and energy after the break, driving Spurs forward and eventually scoring a scrappy but crucial goal to spark the comeback.
Forwards
Brennan Johnson – 5
Was largely anonymous in the first half as Spurs struggled to create chances. Substituted at halftime as Postecoglou reshuffled his attack.
Dominic Solanke – 5
Had a quiet afternoon, with little service to work with. Struggled to influence the game and offered little threat in front of goal. Unselfishly allowed Son to take the penalty.
Wilson Odobert – 7
One of the few bright sparks in attack. Worked tirelessly and saw more of the ball in the second half as Spurs pushed forward.
Substitutes
Lucas Bergvall – 8
A game-changing substitution. The young midfielder injected much-needed energy into Spurs’ attack, nearly scoring with a powerful long-range effort that struck the post.
Son Heung-min – 6
Introduced at halftime but had a relatively quiet second half—until the crucial moment. Showed composure to slot home the late penalty and rescue a point for his side.
Micky van de Ven – 6
Made his return from injury and was warmly welcomed by the fans. His pace and presence in defense will be vital going forward.
James Maddison – 7
Added creativity and urgency to Tottenham’s attack, playing a key role in their late resurgence. Deserves more minutes in the starting XI.
Destiny Udogie – 6
A late cameo as he replaced Porro in the dying minutes.
This was far from a vintage Tottenham performance, with defensive frailties and a sluggish start nearly costing them. However, the fightback in the second half, led by Sarr and Bergvall, offered a glimpse of their potential. While Postecoglou will be relieved to escape with a draw, he will also know his team needs to sharpen up if they are to stay competitive in the Premier League’s top four race.
Tottenham player ratings vs Bournemouth: Four stars get 3 as woeful Spurs steal late draw
