Tottenham’s pre-season begins with Mateus Fernandes’ stunning debut goal
Tottenham commenced their pre-season schedule with a 1-0 victory over League One side MK Dons, highlighted by a remarkable goal from new signing Mateus Fernandes. The match, played behind closed doors, saw Fernandes score within three minutes of his debut, a strike he described as the best of his career.
The midfielder, who joined from West Ham for £85m, connected with a first-time volley from range, sending the ball into the top corner via the post from 20 yards. His goal proved to be the decisive moment in the game, which served as an early test for manager Roberto de Zerbi’s squad.
New Signings Make an Impact
Fernandes was one of three new summer arrivals who featured in the friendly. Alongside him in midfield was Sandro Tonali, a £100m signing from Newcastle, making his first appearance. The duo, acquired for a combined £185m, demonstrated control in the midfield during their 45-minute spell before being substituted at half-time as part of De Zerbi’s changes.
Another debutant was goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, who joined on a free transfer from Burnley in June. Coming on at half-time for Antonin Kinsky, the 37-year-old showcased quick reflexes with a sharp save from close range, denying an MK Dons attack. His performance suggested he could be a capable deputy to Kinsky, who started the game.
Former Spurs defender Sebastian Bassong praised Fernandes’ goal, noting the balance, quality, and connection in the strike. He compared it to memorable goals by Gareth Bale and Zinedine Zidane, highlighting Fernandes’ talent as a gifted player.
Squad Rotation and Youth Opportunities
Roberto De Zerbi utilized 21 players throughout the 90 minutes, making wholesale changes at half-time. This rotation allowed several younger players to gain experience, particularly with a number of senior players absent from the squad. Some key players, including Destiny Udogie, Andy Robertson, Jan Paul van Hecke, Micky van de Ven, and Lucas Bergvall, were seen watching the match after recently returning from the World Cup.
Other players like Mohammed Kudus, Dejan Kulusevski, Xavi Simons, and Wilson Odobert were also unavailable as they continued their recoveries from injury. This provided an opportunity for academy products to impress.
Among the young players, Mikey Moore, an 18-year-old who recently returned from a loan spell, caught the eye playing on the left. Midfielder Rio Kyerematen, 21, played the entire match, demonstrating versatility by featuring at both left-back and right-back. However, Luca Williams-Barnett, a 17-year-old attacking midfielder, was noted for his confidence and fearlessness in a deeper role, making a notable pass that led to a missed scoring opportunity.
These young players will be hoping for more chances during Tottenham’s upcoming pre-season tour. The club’s pre-season schedule includes a trip to New Zealand and Australia, with the next fixture against Auckland FC at Eden Park on Sunday, with kick-off at 04:00 BST.
Upcoming Pre-Season Fixtures
The pre-season schedule features several matches, with some available to watch live on SPURSPLAY. After the match against Auckland FC, Tottenham will face Sydney FC on Wednesday, 29 July, followed by a match against Chelsea on Saturday, 1 August. Both games are scheduled for 10:45 BST.
Later in August, Tottenham will play Getafe CF on Saturday, 8 August, at 15:00 BST. They will then have two fixtures against TSG Hoffenheim, one on Saturday, 15 August, at 15:00 BST, and another on Sunday, 16 August, at 12:00 BST.
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Source: bbc.com
As News GB's Senior Football Correspondent, Lewis Hartnell reports on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side for readers across the country. He reported on south-coast football for a regional title. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Solent University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Lewis lives in Southampton, where he watches youth football and follows the transfer market. “The week's training ground decides the weekend's headlines.”
