Spurs Pre-season Match 5: Key Takeaways

Written by Noah J.N. https://x.com/NoahJN_SD

Tottenham continued their preparations for the new Premier League season with a 1-1 draw against Getafe in a behind-closed-doors friendly on Saturday.

The two teams played two 35-minute halves, with Roberto De Zerbi naming a strong starting XI and opting not to make any substitutions, getting valuable minutes into their legs as Spurs prepare to open their Premier League season against Brentford in just two weeks.

The first half proved frustrating for Tottenham. Spurs controlled possession but struggled to turn it into opportunities against a Getafe side that displayed their physical and well-organised style of play.

The Spanish side eventually took the lead through Alberto Risco, with an excellent build-up sequence ending in a strong finish past Antonín Kinský that left Tottenham chasing the game late on.

Spurs did manage to find an equaliser, with Conor Gallagher continuing his pre-season by finding the back of the net. The midfielder's energy and ability to arrive in dangerous areas could prove an important weapon for De Zerbi this season, especially with James Maddison still working his way back from an ACL injury.

One of Tottenham's brightest attacking outlets actually came from the defence, with Jan Paul van Hecke displaying exactly why De Zerbi wanted to reunite with him. His ability to play through the lines from the back created several opportunities for Spurs in the second half. The return of Micky van de Ven and the blistering pace he brings could make the pair an exciting defensive duo under the Italian manager.

It was an overall solid display from Spurs, and they will look to build on the performance in one week when they take on Bundesliga side Hoffenheim in front of the fans at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.