)
Tottenham have concluded their Asia friendly tour but will welcome Bayern again to North London next week on Saturday
Tottenham Hotspur's pursuit of a perfect pre-season record came to an abrupt end with a 2-1 defeat to Bayern Munich at the Seoul World Cup Stadium.
The loss marked Spurs' first defeat of the summer and highlighted critical issues that need addressing before the new Premier League season kicks off.
The match began on a challenging note for Tottenham as an early mistake by goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario gifted Bayern Munich the opening goal.
Movements that gave the game way
In the fourth minute, Spurs attempted to play out from the back, but Vicario’s poor decision-making led to a critical error.
He passed the ball straight to Djed Spence while Serge Gnabry was closing in. Gnabry swiftly regained possession for Bayern, leading to a tense moment in front of goal.
)
21:00 - 02.08.2024
CAF secretary general under investigation amidst corruption allegations
CAF has launched an investigation into one of its top official amid allegations of misconduct and corruption within the organization.
Though Gnabry's initial attempt was thwarted by Vicario’s outstretched leg, Croatian striker Gabriel Vidovic pounced on the rebound, chested the ball down, and fired it through Vicario’s legs, putting Bayern ahead early in the game. This early goal set the tone for a difficult first half for Tottenham.
The second half saw little improvement for Spurs, who struggled to make an impact despite a handful of tactical changes.
Bayern Munich extended their lead in the 59th minute when Leon Goretzka scored after a persistent effort.
Goretzka initially had his shot blocked by Vicario but remained composed to bury the rebound and double Bayern’s advantage.
Pedro Porro's stunning goal
Despite trailing 2-0, Tottenham showed signs of life with a brilliant individual effort from Pedro Porro.
)
08:14 - 03.08.2024
Manchester United midfielder lauds Wanyama as 'strongest player' in memorable Tottenham stint
Manchester United midfielder has praised former Tottenham teammate Victor Wanyama as the strongest player he has ever encountered in football.
In the 66th minute, after a foul on Son Heung-min, Yves Bissouma released Porro on the right flank.
Porro unleashed a spectacular 25-yard strike into the far corner, reducing the deficit and briefly energizing Spurs.
The goal provided a glimmer of hope for Tottenham, who began to dominate possession and apply pressure on Bayern’s defence.
Following Porro’s goal, Tottenham had several opportunities to equalize. However, Bayern Munich's defense, well-organized and resilient, managed to weather the storm.
Despite Tottenham's increased attacking intent, the German giants held firm and secured the victory, with their defensive solidity proving crucial in the final moments.
)
19:31 - 01.08.2024
Domestic abuse: English-born former Kenyan international opens up on his traumatic childhood experience
Atieno, who played for the Harambee Stars between 2009 and 2012, has opened up on his dark childhood, where he was subjected to multiple accounts of child abuse between the age of four and 11.
Tactical and physical concerns for Tottenham
The match exposed several concerns for Tottenham Hotspur. The early error by Vicario and the inability to effectively manage Bayern’s high press were significant issues.
The decision to play out from the back was ruthlessly punished, indicating a need for better decision-making and composure under pressure.
Moreover, Tottenham appeared to struggle with fatigue, likely due to the demanding nature of their pre-season training camp.
The team’s sluggish performance and lack of sharpness were evident, particularly in their inability to respond effectively after Bayern's second goal.
What’s next for Tottenham and Bayern
With the pre-season tour of Asia concluded, Tottenham Hotspur will look to regroup and focus on their final friendly against Bayern Munich at their North London home next Saturday. The potential return of Harry Kane could provide a boost for the team as they prepare for the Premier League opener against Leicester City on August 19.
Bayern Munich, on the other hand, will complete their pre-season with a match against Austrian side WSG Tirol on August 13, before beginning their competitive campaign with a DFB-Pokal clash against SSV Ulm.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)