The South Korean star's poignant return to Tottenham Hotspur he served for a decade was somewhat dimmed by a contest that lacked competitive edge. Extracting significant conclusions from this new European structure prior to the latter rounds arrive proves a difficult endeavor.
This fixture was predominantly a non-event in terms of competitiveness, making it a mistake to assume Tottenham have morphed into a unstoppable machine on their own ground. They encountered a moderate challenge from Slavia Prague and were not forced to exert themselves completely to claim the three points.
Slavia Prague, arriving winless from their first six group stage games, offered little threat. The Czech Republic champions conceded a peculiar own-goal early on before surrendering two debatable spot-kicks after the half-time break.
"We were pleased we continued the momentum from the weekend victory," Frank remarked. "The team is coming together more and more."
In spite of the uneven nature, Frank is right to cling to indicators of improvement after a troubled beginning to his tenure in North London. He will be unconcerned by the close to 15,000 unsold tickets at the club's home ground.
The thin attendance in the higher stands maybe reflected a absence of excitement about the visiting team's caliber, despite a tremendous ovation welcomed Son Heung-min during his formal farewell ceremony before the start.
The goal came from Son who netted the historic goal at this stadium after the club's relocation in 2019. Although his influence waned last campaign, he will forever be remembered as a Tottenham icon. His presence undoubtedly enhanced the mood, even if the current crop of stars also played their part.
The first goal arrived in the first half when the Argentine defender flicked on a Pedro Porro corner, resulting in Slavia's David Zima directing a unfortunate own goal past his own keeper.
Mohammed Kudus made it 2-0 from the penalty spot early into the second period, after a Slavia defender was adjudged to have brought down Porro.
With the outcome safe, Spurs could ease off. Xavi Simons then completed the scoring by earning and scoring a another spot-kick in the latter stages.
Overall, it was a professional performance from Spurs against limited competition. The atmosphere around the club has improved, and the pressure on the coach has for now eased.
