Three things we learned from Spurs’ hard-fought 1-0 win over CSKA

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Gritty Spurs are able to find a way

Throughout the match, Tottenham were far more of an attacking presence in the CSKA half than the Russians were in their own, but throughout the opening 70 minutes, it was a case of domination met with frustration for the Londoners. They enjoyed the lion’s share of possession but simply couldn’t produce the killer ball in the final third or were restricted to efforts from distance, one of which almost shattered the hosts’ resistance, only for Dele Alli to see his snapshot strike the woodwork.

With Spurs failing to make their chances count at one end, there were concerns that a defensive lapse akin to those against Monaco could see another huge opportunity go begging in Europe, particularly when Alli saw another two chances elude him when his header landed on the roof of the net and he miscontrolled when through on goal having timed his run to remain onside.

Fortunately, the Russians failed to be ruthless in the final third as the visitors did, that was at least until Son pounced late on, a goal which sparked both joy and relief for Tottenham after a gritty and determined performance.

CSKA had managed to haul back a two-goal deficit to draw against Bayer Leverkusen on Matchday 1, but Spurs contained them well and continued to press home their advantage with possession following the goal, ensuring that all three points were heading back to North London. They now lie second in Group E on three points going into the double header with Leverkusen, whilst Monaco’s four sees them top.