Opinion: Five things we learned from Tottenham's 2-2 draw with Brentford

Tottenham Hotspur were led out by Ange Postecoglou for the first-ever time in the Premier League this afternoon, as they played out a 2-2 draw away to Brentford. 

Let’s take a look at the five things we learned:

Tottenham Hotspur’s Greek-Australian Head Coach Ange Postecoglou gestures on the touchline during the English Premier League football match between Brentford and Tottenham Hotspur at Gtech Community Stadium in London on August 13, 2023. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or ‘live’ services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

First point under Ange –

The first game of the season means very little in terms of earning points and looking at the overall standings. However, for Spurs and Postecoglou, not losing was a huge step today. As a new manager, the last thing you want is for headlines to pile up if you lose X number of games in a row to start your tenure. While the ‘Spurs stutter without Harry Kane‘ comments would have been rife too. A good point away from home against a side who are famously good from home. Great start for Ange.

Controlled play from Spurs –

While Mourinho and Conte would argue they implemented a controlled defensive shape out of possession, designed to hit teams on the break, this was the first time we have seen Spurs dominate the ball in a long while. Yes, Brentford hit Tottenham on the break a few times and looked dangerous, but the general pattern of play was Spurs attempting to break down a low block. Very encouraging signs in the first match of a completely new system.

Debuts galore –

James Maddison, Destiny Udogie, and Micky Van de Ven all looked really impressive on their full debuts for Spurs. The former collected two assists and looked so creative on the ball in a free-roaming midfield role. Udogie was a machine at left-back, both overlapping out wide and inverting infield. And Van de Ven, despite the unfortunate deflection into his own net, was so composed on the ball and no-nonsense in his defending.

Vicario a little more erratic –

Not to single Vicario out for a bad performance, it was anything but. He made the saves he needed to make and just about stayed on the right side of the line. However, some of his decision-making very much reminded me of the early Lloris days. Charging out when he really didn’t need to and taking a little too much time on the ball. But he seems a confident lad and will no doubt settle into the different pace of the Premier League.

Yves Bissouma, Man of the Match –

To look as sharp across 90 minutes as Yves Bissouma did today is rather rare in the opening match of a new season, and he thoroughly deserved the MOTM award. He made Spurs tick from the first moment until the last, picking the ball up in his own half and driving up towards the Brentford box. His tackling, protection of the ball, possession, and creativity was all top-notch. I can’t wait to see what he can do with a little more game time and with Bentancur beside him.