Tottenham Hotspur were hit hard in their quest for a UEFA Champions League spot, being beaten 2-0 at home by an energetic Aston Villa side. Antonio Conte’s side looked lackluster as he conceded twice and missed a shot on goal in the second half to cap up a bad day for Spurs. The home faithful booed his full-time side, and with Conte’s contract only running until the end of the season, the signs look ominous.
Spurs entered the game after their 2-2 draw against Brentford on Boxing Day and were unlucky not to be in front when Harry Kane’s effort was cleared off the line by Ashley Young just before half time. Villa was stoic in his defense and made himself difficult to break through, which was evident in a tedious first half.
The Spurs concede the first goal again
Despite the fact that the hosts started better than both teams after the break, it was Villa who took the lead on 50 minutes when Emi Buendía shot from 12 meters. Douglas Luiz had aimed from 30 meters, but Hugo Lloris was unable to pick up the ball as Ollie Watkins reached for the rebound and then took a touch before passing to Buendía, who made no mistake to give the away team the lead.
Unai Emery’s side showed themselves to be a better team after going up front and passing the ball with aplomb keeping Spurs at bay. Villa doubled their lead in the 74th minute after John McGinn found Luiz with a brilliant, lofty pass and the Brazilian took a great first touch and then fired his shot past the underdog Lloris into the Tottenham goal. Luiz, however, had to come off in the 80th minute after twisting his knee, but Villa held on to claim a deserved win on New Year’s Day.
The loss will surely put more pressure on Conte, who has yet to commit his future with the club amid reports that he could walk if Tottenham fail to finish in the top four.
The London team currently sits fifth in the table with 30 points, two behind Manchester United who played an extra game.
Photo: IMAGO / Sportimage
