Under-fire Tottenham manager Thomas Frank breathed a sigh of relief as his team produced an electrifying first-half display to overcome Borussia Dortmund 2-0 in the Champions League on Tuesday night.
First-Half Flourish Seals Victory
The hosts stormed ahead in the 12th minute when defender Cristian Romero poked home Wilson Odobert's inviting cross. The Argentine's opener set the tone for a commanding Spurs performance at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, where they extended their unbeaten European home run to 24 matches.
Dortmund's hopes suffered a major blow when Daniel Svensson received a straight red card after VAR reviewed his dangerous high boot challenge on Odobert. The numerical advantage allowed Tottenham to double their lead through Dominic Solanke, who marked his first start this season with a fortuitous finish from another Odobert delivery.
Mixed Reactions for Frank
While the opening 45 minutes showcased Tottenham at their vibrant best, their intensity dipped after halftime. Randal Kolo Muani wasted a golden chance to make it 3-0, while goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario needed to be alert to deny Nico Schlotterbeck's late header.
The victory lifts Spurs to fourth in their group, putting them in contention for automatic knockout qualification with one match remaining. For Frank, the result provides temporary respite following recent fan discontent after their weekend Premier League defeat to West Ham.
Road Ahead
Tottenham conclude their group stage campaign at Eintracht Frankfurt on January 28, while Dortmund host Inter Milan simultaneously. Though questions remain about Frank's long-term suitability, this performance - particularly the dynamic first half - offers a blueprint for success.
"The work rate and attacking intent we showed early on was exactly what we needed," Frank told reporters post-match. "Now we must build consistency."
Player of the Match: Xavi Simons (Tottenham) - 8.23 rating
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