Ipswich Town pulled off an incredible upset at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, clinching their first Premier League win of the season with a 2-1 triumph over Tottenham Hotspur.
Coming into the game as heavy underdogs, the Tractor Boys defied the odds, outperforming Spurs with determination and flair.
Goals from Sammie Szmodics and Liam Delap provided the visitors with an early lead, while Tottenham’s Rodrigo Bentancur gave the home side hope in the second half. However, Ipswich held their ground and took three valuable points back to Portman Road.
For Ipswich Town, this game marked a huge milestone. Winless since their return to the Premier League, Ipswich arrived in north London determined to end their drought.
Manager Kieran McKenna set his team up with a defensive structure that frustrated Spurs while allowing his players to exploit opportunities on the counter.
Spurs, on the other hand, seemed unable to find a rhythm and struggled to make meaningful progress despite a high possession rate.
First Goal: Szmodics Stuns Tottenham with Overhead Kick
Town’s breakthrough came in the 31st minute, thanks to a remarkable overhead kick from Sammie Szmodics.
The former Blackburn Rovers forward adjusted brilliantly to meet a looping ball from Delap, executing a perfectly controlled bicycle kick that flew past Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario. The goal left the home crowd stunned and gave Ipswich the confidence to push forward.
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Delap Doubles Ipswich’s Lead
Just before halftime, Ipswich extended their lead. In the 43rd minute, Delap seized on a loose ball after a low cross from Szmodics, smashing it home from close range.
With the score at 2-0, the Ipswich supporters erupted in joy, while Tottenham’s players appeared shaken by their defensive lapses.
For Delap, this was a moment of redemption, showcasing his commitment to Ipswich’s campaign as they fight to avoid relegation.
GOT IT DONE IN NORTH LONDON! WHAT A WIN!#TOTIPS | @Nustone_UK pic.twitter.com/gkoYYU57CK
— IPSWICH TOWN (@IpswichTown) November 10, 2024
Tottenham’s Second-Half Revival Falls Short
Tottenham came out fighting in the second half, determined to turn the game around. Manager Ange Postecoglou made tactical adjustments and brought on Timo Werner and James Maddison, hoping to inject pace and creativity.
Rodrigo Bentancur gave Spurs a glimmer of hope when he scored in the 69th minute, converting a corner delivered by Pedro Porro.
However, despite their efforts, Spurs could not find an equalizer. Ipswich’s goalkeeper Arijanet Muric played a key role, making critical saves to maintain his team’s lead.
Ipswich’s Defensive Resilience
Their victory can largely be attributed to their strong defensive organization and Muric’s stellar goalkeeping. The team’s xG (expected goals) of 1.74 closely matched Tottenham’s 1.82, reflecting their ability to create chances and contain Spurs’ attacks.
Muric’s impressive five saves were crucial in keeping Ipswich’s lead intact, especially as Tottenham pushed hard in the game’s final minutes.
Tottenham’s Struggles Continue
For Tottenham, this game was a disappointing setback, especially after recent wins over Manchester City and Aston Villa. They struggled to break down the opponents defense, often relying on long shots that did little to trouble Muric.
Although Spurs had a decent number of chances, they lacked a clinical edge and struggled to find cohesion in the final third. Their inconsistent form under Postecoglou is becoming a growing concern as they enter the international break.
Ipswich Rises Above Relegation Zone
This victory lifted Ipswich Town out of the relegation zone, providing a morale boost as they head into the international break. Kieran McKenna’s side showed that they are capable of competing in the Premier League, especially against strong opponents like Tottenham.
With this win, Ipswich can build momentum and look to climb further up the table in their quest to secure Premier League survival.
Key Players: Szmodics, Delap, and Muric Shine for Ipswich
Several Ipswich players stood out in this remarkable performance. Szmodics’ opening goal was a moment of individual brilliance that set the tone for Ipswich’s spirited display.
Delap, who contributed with both a goal and an assist, was equally instrumental in Ipswich’s attacking efforts.
Finally, goalkeeper Arijanet Muric’s saves were critical in securing the victory, as he kept out multiple Tottenham attempts and maintained his composure under intense pressure.
Ipswich’s Historic Victory
This win marks Ipswich’s first victory over Tottenham since 2002, and it is a significant milestone in their journey back to the Premier League.
For a team that has often struggled to hold its own in the top tier, this performance is a testament to McKenna’s tactical acumen and the players’ commitment.
As Ipswich looks forward, they can take pride in this result and continue building on the solid foundation they showcased against Tottenham.
