“Who could have predicted this at halftime? Tottenham lost their composure, and this player didn’t do enough,” said Alan Smith, criticizing a Spurs star for his part in the defeat to Brighton.
Tottenham’s five-game winning streak ended with a dramatic 3-2 loss to Brighton, marked by a stunning second-half comeback.
After establishing a comfortable 2-0 lead by halftime with goals from Brennan Johnson and James Maddison, Spurs couldn’t hold onto their advantage. Brighton turned the game around with three goals in just 18 minutes after the break, sealing a remarkable victory.
The crucial moment came in the 66th minute when Danny Welbeck headed in what would be the match-winning goal. Brighton’s Georginio Rutter skillfully navigated past three Tottenham defenders near the byline before delivering a precise cross. Welbeck, left unmarked, headed the ball past Spurs goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario.
Sky Sports commentator Alan Smith criticized Tottenham’s defense, particularly highlighting Rodrigo Bentancur’s failure to challenge Rutter effectively. Smith noted that Bentancur’s lack of pressure allowed Rutter to create the key opportunity for Welbeck.
He commented, “How Rutter managed to evade three players on the right side of the box is beyond me. Bentancur didn’t do enough. Danny Welbeck couldn’t believe the space he had for a free header… Unbelievable! Who would have expected this at halftime? Tottenham lost their composure and resilience.”
Despite dominating the first half, Spurs struggled to regain their rhythm once Brighton took charge. With the international break approaching, Tottenham now has the chance to reflect on this setback and regroup as they look to bounce back from this unexpected defeat.
