Micky van de Ven delivered a captain's masterclass with a 9-out-of-10 performance, scoring twice and defending brilliantly as Tottenham secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Everton at Goodison Park. The Dutch centre-back's two headed goals from corners lifted Spurs to third place in the Premier League.
Van de Ven dominated the Everton penalty area with powerful headers in the 19th minute and first-half stoppage time. His defensive display was equally magnificent, featuring sensational defending and crucial line-breaking passes throughout the contest.
Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario earned an 8 rating after producing a stunning save to deny Beto's overhead kick. Despite not looking entirely convincing from corners, he stepped up when needed and continued his impressive form from the Monaco performance.
Defensive excellence
Pedro Porro matched Van de Ven's 8 rating with a superb early block to deny Jack Grealish and perfect corner delivery for the captain's second goal. Kevin Danso also received an 8 for his rock-solid aerial defending, proving less eye-catching than his partner but doing his job brilliantly against Everton's numerous crosses.
Djed Spence struggled against Iliman Ndiaye's pace, earning just a 6 rating for a somewhat shaky display. The left-back improved as the match progressed but endured one of his tougher afternoons in a Spurs shirt.
Midfield control
Rodrigo Bentancur delivered a firm statement after recent criticism with an outstanding 8-rated performance. He fired a brilliant half-volley just wide and showed great desire at the back post to assist Van de Ven's opener, being everywhere in midfield.
Joao Palhinha quietly excelled with a 7 rating, making more tackles than any other Spurs player with four interventions. Mohammed Kudus also earned an 8 for being Spurs' biggest attacking threat in a more central role, with his set-piece delivery proving crucial once again.
Forward line struggles
Xavi Simons disappointed with a 5 rating, failing to deliver in decisive moments despite tracking back well to help Spence. Brennan Johnson managed only a 6 after a quiet display on the right wing, not doing enough to secure a starting position for upcoming matches.
Randal Kolo Muani showed promise in his first Spurs start with a 7 rating, leading the line confidently with lovely touches to create chances for Simons. He tired after the break but demonstrated the team looks better with him starting.
Substitute impact
Pape Matar Sarr produced a wonderful cameo performance rated at 8, coming off the bench to seal victory with a confident headed finish in the 77th minute. His energy in getting Spurs up the pitch proved decisive in putting the match beyond doubt.
Richarlison earned a 6 rating despite missing a clear chance when clean through, blasting straight at Jordan Pickford. He made up for the miss somewhat by providing the assist for Sarr's clinching goal.
Sources used: "Standard Sport" Note: This article has been created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
