Champions League; Tottenham Hotspur 0-1 Ajax: 5 talking points and tactical analysis

#4 Moussa Sissoko makes a difference

Moussa Sissoko

Moussa Sissoko has endured a tough start to his Spurs career and came in for heavy criticism and was labeled as yet another expensive flop. But it was his substitution albeit under unfortunate conditions that galvanized Spurs and gave them the firepower to compete against the bright Ajax youngsters. A freakish injury to Jan Vertonghen after a collision with the Ajax keeper saw him depart the field making way for the Frenchman. Tottenham initially started in a 3-4-3 formation with Llorente as the spearhead with Lucas Moura and Dele Alli playing behind him. Christian Eriksen and Victor Wanyama played as the midfield duo with a back three of Jan Vertongehen, Toby Aldeweireld, and Davidson Sanchez. Danny Rose and Kieren Trippier started in the full-back positions.

Now, Ajax is known for their first press as they press their opposition vehemently higher up the field into losing the ball. There are a few ways to beat the press like by playing long balls to the attackers or the wide full backs or break the midfield lines with strong and direct running. Spurs used the latter tactic but could not trouble the Ajax defense. However, the injury to Vertoghen and the subsequent introduction of Sissoko meant the Londoners switched to a back four which gave them more numbers in midfield and they improved after the change.

The 29-year-old's robustness and physical nature disrupted the fluency of the Dutch side and his powerful forward surges and drive helped their attacking cause. Thus he helped to shield the defense and provide some attacking impetus showcasing his growing importance to this Tottenham side.