Tottenham secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Manchester United, ending their prolonged winless streak at home and highlighting the mounting challenges for Ruben Amorim and his injury-ravaged squad.
Returning from a five-game absence, James Maddison capitalized on an Andre Onana save, slotting home after the goalkeeper parried Lucas Bergvall’s first-half effort.
Meanwhile, Guglielmo Vicario, back in action for the first time since November 23, was instrumental in keeping United at bay, denying Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund on multiple occasions.
In a clash between two of the Premier League’s most disappointing sides this season, Spurs appeared to be turning a corner as they welcomed key players back from injury.
The victory snapped a seven-game home league drought and marked their third triumph over United across all competitions this campaign, a feat they last achieved in the 1989/90 season.
Tottenham climbed to 12th place, securing consecutive league wins for only the second time this season, having also beaten Brentford and United in back-to-back fixtures earlier in the campaign.
United had opportunities to equalize, with Garnacho missing a clear-cut chance inside the box and Joshua Zirkzee heading wide.
However, their defensive frailties were evident, frequently leaving gaps for Spurs to exploit.
Amorim’s squad limitations were glaring, with key players like Amad Diallo, Manuel Ugarte, Kobbie Mainoo, and Leny Yoro unavailable, and Victor Lindelof surrounded by inexperienced teenagers on the bench.
The lack of options was evident as he waited until the 90th minute to make his first substitution.
Now languishing in 15th place, United are in dire need of inspiration to salvage their season, with the FA Cup and Europa League becoming their primary focus.
However, based on current performances, a turnaround doesn’t seem imminent.
