Fernandes’ debut goal and midfield impact
Mateus Fernandes made a notable debut for Tottenham in a behind-closed-doors friendly against MK Dons, scoring what he described as his career’s best goal within three minutes. The goal, a first-time volley from range, secured a 1-0 victory for Roberto de Zerbi’s side.
The 22-year-old positioned himself to meet a long punch clear from MK Dons goalkeeper Craig MacGillivray following a corner. He struck the ball from 20 yards, sending it into the top corner via the post. Fernandes commented that he needs to attempt such shots more frequently, noting the confidence it provides.
Former Tottenham defender Sebastian Bassong praised Fernandes’ effort, highlighting his balance, quality, and connection with the ball. Bassong compared the strike to notable goals by Gareth Bale and Zinedine Zidane.
Fernandes partnered with Sandro Tonali in a midfield double pivot. Both players were substituted at half-time as De Zerbi made changes, but not before they had influenced the midfield. Tonali, in his first appearance since joining from Newcastle, was described as decisive on the ball and provided instruction to his new teammates.
Other debuts and pre-season schedule
Goalkeeper Martin Dubravka also made his debut for Tottenham, joining on a free transfer in June. He entered the game at half-time, replacing Antonin Kinsky. Dubravka made a sharp save from close range, thwarting an attack at the near post by pushing a header over from six yards.
This friendly was part of Tottenham’s pre-season preparations, which include several matches available to watch live on SPURSPLAY. The platform will broadcast all seven of the Men’s First Team pre-season games, including those scheduled for tours in New Zealand and Australia, as well as behind-closed-doors friendlies.
The team is set to travel to New Zealand for their pre-season tour. Their next fixture is against A-League side Auckland FC at Eden Park on Sunday, with kick-off scheduled for 04:00 BST.
Tottenham’s pre-season schedule also includes matches against Sydney FC, Chelsea, Getafe CF, and two fixtures against TSG Hoffenheim. These matches are scheduled throughout July and August.
The club’s fortunes have seen an upward trend recently, moving from a Premier League relegation battle to securing survival and making significant new signings. This trajectory is under the management of Roberto de Zerbi, who took over after Igor Tudor’s tenure last term.
The combined cost of Fernandes and Tonali’s transfers is reported to be £185m. Fans have expressed interest in seeing how these new additions will contribute to the team’s progress.
The Tottenham pre-season fixtures are:
- Spurs vs MK Dons – Wednesday 22 July – 5pm
- Auckland FC vs Spurs – Sunday 26 July – 4am (UK)
- Sydney FC vs Spurs – Wednesday 29 July – 10.45am (UK)
- Chelsea vs Spurs – Saturday 1 August – 10.45am (UK)
- Spurs vs Getafe CF – Saturday 8 August – 3pm (UK)
- Spurs vs TSG Hoffenheim – Saturday 15 August – 3pm (UK)
- Spurs vs TSG Hoffenheim – Sunday 16 August – 12noon
SPURSPLAY subscriptions are included as a benefit for One Hotspur+ Members and Season Ticket Holders, or can be purchased for an annual fee of £45, reduced to £35 for One Hotspur Members.
The platform offers access to live Under-18s and Under-21s matches, selected Women’s First Team matches, and an archive of club content.
Tottenham will play Auckland FC at Eden Park on Sunday.
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Source: bbc.com
