By Our Reporter
Tottenham Hotspur produced an energetic and assured performance to defeat Borussia Dortmund 2–0 in the Champions League, easing pressure on manager Thomas Frank and strengthening their push for a top-eight finish.
Spurs, who entered the match amid growing criticism after a league defeat to West Ham, responded with intensity and attacking freedom against the Bundesliga side. Cristian Romero opened the scoring in the 14th minute, finishing from close range after Borussia Dortmund failed to clear a corner.
The visitors’ task became more difficult midway through the first half when Daniel Svensson was sent off following a VAR review, leaving Dortmund to play with 10 men for more than an hour.
Tottenham made their numerical advantage count before the break, doubling their lead through Dominic Solanke. The striker benefited from a fortunate ricochet as his mishit attempt spun into the net, marking his first goal of the season.
Spurs dominated the opening half with pace and movement, particularly from Djed Spence, Xavi Simons and Wilson Odobert, while Dortmund struggled to cope with the hosts’ urgency.
Although the German side improved after half-time, Tottenham remained largely in control and created further chances, with Randal Kolo Muani denied when through on goal late on.
The victory leaves Tottenham well placed for a top-eight finish and a direct place in the Champions League last 16, with one league-phase match remaining away at Eintracht Frankfurt. The result also provided a timely lift for Frank, whose position had come under scrutiny in recent days.