Tottenham's Thomas Frank Sees Encouragement in PSG Thriller Ahead of Fulham

Tottenham's coach Thomas Frank arrived in Paris determined to show a team-building plan despite recent criticism from fans. In a high-profile Champions League night at Parc des Princes, Spurs produced an energetic, goal-laden display that kept PSG under pressure before a late surge decided the result.

Strategic setup and on-pitch aggression

Frank switched away from a five-man defence, opting for a traditional back four shielded by Bentancur and Gray, with Richarlison and Kolo Muani leading the line. The approach reflected a deliberate shift toward higher up the pitch pressing and more front-foot intent, something supporters noticed compared with the Arsenal game.

Key moments and turning points

Spurs briefly led through Richarlison and Muani, but a set-piece workout saw Vitinha level, then a sloppy possession by Sarr early in the second half handed PSG the lead through Ruiz. Vitinha then struck twice in quick succession to swing the game in PSG's favor. Despite the quick reply from Spurs, the hosts could not keep pace with the French champions' quality on the night.

Individual displays and team spirit

Muani showed his quality when fit, contributing to Spurs' two goals while Richarlison added another. The visitors' midfield and forward line pressed relentlessly, giving PSG something to contend with in a fixture many expected to be one-sided.

Reaction from the manager

Frank praised the performance for revealing the club's true identity, noting bravery and aggressive intent. He cautioned, however, that costly lapses and lapses at critical moments must be avoided if Spurs are to compete with Europe's best.

Looking ahead

The stage now shifts to a crucial home match against Fulham, where Frank must consolidate the positives and further stabilize the defence while maintaining the attacking mood that characterized the PSG game.

Key Takeaways

• Spurs showed a sharper, more assertive approach than in the Arsenal loss.
• The back four plus midfield pairing provided balance and pressing intensity.
• Set-piece and careless possession mistakes proved decisive against PSG.
• Richarlison and Muani offered a real goal threat and partnership up front.

Expert comment

Former Spurs and England goalkeeper Paul Robinson noted a clear shift in attitude, with higher pressing and more energy than recently shown, giving supporters more reasons to be optimistic ahead of the Fulham game. He pointed to the improved application as a sign the team is moving in the right direction.

Summary

Tottenham still fell short in Paris, but the display delivered a blueprint for how they want to play: aggressive, composed in possession, and quick to press. The performance offered tangible positives and a roadmap for building consistency in big games. The focus now is on translating this identity into domestic results, starting with Fulham.

Key insight: Spurs showed real identity and resilience against top competition, but need to tighten margins at set-pieces and in possession to convert promising nights into points. Source: BBC Sport