0% aerial duels won: 16-touch star just had his worst-ever game in a Tottenham Hotspur shirt
Lucas Bergvall featured for Tottenham Hotspur in their Champions League encounter against AS Monaco, but it ultimately proved to be a night the young Swedish midfielder will want to forget.
The 19-year-old prodigy has been one of Tottenham’s brightest sparks this season, dazzling fans with his vision, composure, and intelligence on the ball. Since Thomas Frank took charge, Bergvall has flourished in a more advanced midfield role, rapidly becoming a fan favourite and one of the first names on the team sheet. His maturity and confidence have drawn praise from pundits and supporters alike, with many tipping him to become one of Europe’s top young talents.
However, even the most gifted players experience difficult nights — and this was certainly one for Bergvall.
A tough outing for the young Swede
Bergvall was handed a starting role in the number 10 position against Monaco, with Frank showing faith in the youngster over marquee summer signing Xavi Simons. It was a bold call that ultimately didn’t pay off.
From the opening whistle, Bergvall struggled to find his rhythm. Normally known for his elegant control and calm distribution, he appeared rushed and uncertain, misplacing several passes and losing possession in key areas. Tottenham found it difficult to build momentum through him, and Monaco’s relentless pressing only made things worse.
Supporters watching from home and in the stands noted that the midfielder seemed “chaotic” and “out of sync” with the pace of the game — uncharacteristic traits for a player who usually oozes confidence. After an hour of play, Frank decided to make a change, substituting Bergvall for Simons in hopes of injecting more stability and creativity into Spurs’ attack.
According to Football London, Bergvall “looked weak in possession and never seemed comfortable positionally,” a rare criticism for the youngster who has otherwise impressed at every opportunity this campaign.
Numbers tell the story
The statistics from FOTMOB paint a clear picture of his struggles on the night. Bergvall’s passing accuracy dipped well below his usual standards, and he won very few of his duels. He also completed minimal progressive carries — a key strength in his previous outings — and failed to register any real attacking impact before being replaced.
It was, without doubt, his most challenging performance since joining Tottenham. But such moments are part of a young player’s development, especially in the unforgiving environment of Champions League football.
A chance to bounce back
Despite his rough evening in Monaco, there’s no doubt Bergvall remains a vital piece of Thomas Frank’s long-term vision for Spurs. His technical quality, tactical awareness, and determination have already earned him the trust of his manager and teammates. One off-night won’t change that.
The teenager will be eager to respond this weekend when Tottenham travel to the Hill Dickinson Stadium for a tricky Premier League clash against Everton. It presents the perfect opportunity for Bergvall to rediscover his form, remind everyone of his immense talent, and continue his rapid development in what has otherwise been an exceptional debut season in North London.
Every young star has setbacks — but if Bergvall’s performances so far are anything to go by, this one will only fuel his desire to come back stronger.