Tottenham Hotspur are currently navigating through what is shaping up to be their most disappointing season in recent memory. Sitting 16th in the Premier League table, the North London club has already crashed out of both domestic cup competitions, leaving them with only the Europa League as their final hope for salvaging a trophy. Fortunately, their prospects in Europe still seem bright, especially following a dominant performance against Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt. With the Europa League final set to take place in Bilbao, Spurs will be hoping to turn their continental campaign into a silver lining in an otherwise dismal season.
Their latest Premier League outing saw them take on fellow strugglers West Ham United at the London Stadium. The Hammers, sitting just one place below Spurs in 17th, have endured a similarly underwhelming season, making this fixture a must-win for both sides—not in pursuit of glory, but as a means to climb away from the relegation zone and restore some dignity. With Liverpool having already secured the Premier League title and the league campaign all but wrapped up for most clubs, this match offered a valuable opportunity for both teams to rotate their squads and test fringe players in a competitive environment.
Tottenham got off to a bright start in East London. Their energy and pressing paid off quickly, as young forward Wilson Odobert capped off a slick attacking move with a calm and clinical finish in the 15th minute. His composed strike gave the visitors a deserved 1-0 lead and hinted at a possible breakthrough in Spurs’ fortunes. However, in classic ‘Spursy’ fashion, the advantage didn’t last long. West Ham responded with intent and found an equaliser in the 28th minute through Jarrod Bowen, who reacted first to a loose ball in the box and fired home from close range.
The first half saw Tottenham carve out several promising chances. Richarlison and Mathys Tel both came close to restoring the lead, but lacked the precision needed to beat the West Ham goalkeeper. Tel, in particular, was lively throughout, and though his thunderous free-kick attempt soared over the bar, he was arguably one of Spurs’ more dangerous players. Midfielder Pape Matar Sarr brought tenacity to the midfield battle, while Dejan Kulusevski was a constant outlet on the right, helping to create space and link attacks. However, injuries disrupted the rhythm, with Djed Spence forced off after taking a knock, adding to Tottenham’s growing list of sidelined players.
As the second half began, the intensity remained high. Spurs looked the more proactive side, pressing West Ham’s backline and creating openings, yet continued to struggle with that ever-elusive finishing touch. Both Richarlison and Tel tested the Hammers’ goalkeeper again, while Pape Sarr fired a long-range effort that flew wide. Tottenham introduced Yves Bissouma and promising youngster Mikey Moore to freshen up midfield and inject some attacking impetus, and while the changes added urgency, the home side’s defence stood resolute.
West Ham nearly snatched all three points late on when Bowen met a set-piece delivery with a powerful header, only to be denied by an alert Guglielmo Vicario, who once again proved why he’s been one of Spurs’ few consistent performers this season. Despite a flurry of late corners and hopeful crosses into the box, Tottenham were ultimately unable to break the deadlock, and the match ended in a 1-1 stalemate.
With time running out in the league and the club in desperate need of a morale boost, the draw does little to change the narrative surrounding Spurs’ underwhelming campaign. However, there were glimmers of promise in the performances of some young players—glimmers that could become pivotal in the club’s European push.
Tottenham Player Ratings:
Guglielmo Vicario – 7/10
Had a mostly quiet outing but made crucial saves when called upon, especially to deny Bowen late in the game. Let in the equaliser through his legs, but otherwise showed good composure.
Archie Gray – 7/10
Showed maturity beyond his years with tidy touches and smart positioning. Though not heavily involved in attack, he avoided costly errors and showed promise.
Kevin Danso – 7/10
Solid defensively, winning key duels and showing strength under pressure. Committed a few fouls but was largely dependable.
Ben Davies – 7/10
Struggled to cope with Bowen’s sharp movement and picked up an early yellow card. Gave away a few unnecessary fouls, but his experience helped steady the backline.
Djed Spence – 6/10
Delivered a dangerous cross that led to a chance for Richarlison, but his momentum was cut short due to injury and a handball.
Yves Bissouma – 7/10
Controlled the tempo well in parts and looked comfortable in possession. Showed ambition with a few long-range efforts.
Pape Matar Sarr – 6/10
Energetic as ever, putting in a combative shift in midfield. Took shots from distance and added drive, though he lacked precision.
Dejan Kulusevski – 7/10
One of the more creative outlets, drawing fouls and delivering incisive passes, including one that nearly led to a goal for Richarlison.
Wilson Odobert – 8/10
Tottenham’s best performer. His early goal was taken with confidence, and he consistently stretched the West Ham defence with intelligent runs.
Richarlison – 6/10
Put in plenty of effort and had his moments, but continues to misfire in front of goal. His lack of finishing touch remains a major concern.
Mathys Tel – 7/10
Lively throughout the match, Tel wasn’t afraid to take risks. Had a few efforts saved or off-target and picked up a late booking, but his willingness to take on defenders was a positive.
