Football: Tottenham Hotspur 1 - 1 Eintracht Frankfurt

Tottenham were held by Frankfurt as Santos steals the show in Europa League tie

They were held to a 1-1 draw by Eintracht Frankfurt, with visiting goalkeeper Kaua Santos delivering a stunning performance to keep the hosts at bay.

Author - Greg S

The Brazilian, deputising for the injured Kevin Trapp, produced a series of outstanding saves in the first leg of the Europa League quarter-final at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, frustrating Spurs throughout a breathless encounter.

Frankfurt struck early through Hugo Ekitike, whose low drive in the sixth minute underlined why a number of Premier League clubs are keeping tabs on the 22-year-old forward. The move came from a Spurs error in midfield, as James Maddison lost possession and Ellyes Skhiri found Ekitike in space. The Frenchman cut inside and picked his spot with precision, beating Guglielmo Vicario at the far post.

Spurs responded with intent and gradually gained control. Their efforts were rewarded when Pedro Porro levelled the tie with a clever flick after being picked out by Maddison. From that point, Postecoglou’s side looked the more likely to win it, dominating after the break and creating a flurry of chances.

READ MORE: Chelsea 1 - 0 Tottenham Hotspur

READ MORE: News from across Germany

READ MORE: UEFA Europa League and Conference League: 24/25

Lucas Bergvall and Rodrigo Bentancur both struck the bar in quick succession, while Son Heung-min and Maddison forced Santos into full-stretch stops with curling efforts from the edge of the area. Deep into added time, the Frankfurt keeper was called upon once again, this time tipping Micky van de Ven’s header over the bar with his fingertips.

Spurs may come to rue those missed opportunities. With domestic silverware already out of reach and their league position offering little encouragement, the Europa League represents their best remaining hope of a successful season. The competition also carries the added incentive of a Champions League place for the winners.

Postecoglou, speaking before the match, admitted he was under no illusions about the pressure he faces. He acknowledged that even lifting a European trophy might not be enough to convince all fans that he is the right man to lead the club forward.

With the return leg set to be played in Frankfurt’s atmospheric Waldstadion, where over 50,000 fans will make their voices heard, the tie remains finely poised. There were encouraging signs for Spurs, particularly in the second half, but without a cutting edge in front of goal, they were left with only a share of the spoils.

Santos, the standout performer on the night, ensured that Frankfurt travel home level and with momentum on their side.

Best reaction from Spurs fans

The reaction from Tottenham supporters was mixed following the draw. While many praised the improved performance, others were left frustrated by the result and the missed opportunities.

Oscar said: "A much better, more inspired performance. Why can't we get that in the Premier League? Has to do with the mentality. Really should have won the game but we'll definitely take the draw and go fight in Frankfurt."

Daniel added: "A disappointing result, but not due to the performance. We were the better side and hitting the bar twice and having a last minute winner saved is gutting. We're still in the tie and will need something special in Germany."

Jamie also gave his thoughts: "That was lacklustre for too much of the game. Put the effort in towards the end but too little too late. Frankfurt were far too comfortable for large portions of the match."