Thomas Frank humorously compared Micky van de Ven's goal to Lionel Messi playing as a centre-back after Tottenham's emphatic 4-0 victory over FC Copenhagen. Despite Brennan Johnson's red card, Spurs dominated
the match at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Johnson scored the club's earliest Champions League goal since 2019, but also became the first British player to score and be sent off in the same game.
Van de Ven's remarkable goal was a standout moment. He took possession near Spurs' box, surged forward, and scored from the edge of Copenhagen's area. "That could be the goal of the season!" Frank exclaimed to TNT Sports. "It was like if Messi turned into a centre-back. " Van de Ven has netted six goals this season, trailing only Bayer Leverkusen's Alex Grimaldo among defenders in Europe's top five leagues.
Cristian Romero contributed significantly by assisting Joao Palhinha for Spurs' fourth goal. Frank praised Romero's effort, noting his determination not to be outshone by his fellow defender. Reflecting on their recent 1-0 defeat to Chelsea, Frank expressed satisfaction with his team's response. "I am very happy with a lot of things," he said, highlighting their strong mentality.
Frank emphasised the importance of resilience in football and life. "After a bad performance or situation, it is about how you react," he stated. The team demonstrated what he called a "bounce-back mentality" following their loss to Chelsea. This attitude helped them control the game from start to finish against Copenhagen, even after Johnson's dismissal.
The Dutchman van de Ven acknowledged the significance of their victory after a challenging weekend. "That is, for sure, what we needed after a tough one at the weekend," he told TNT Sports. His contributions have been crucial for Tottenham this season, showcasing his ability to impact games both defensively and offensively.
Frank was impressed by how his players elevated their performance levels despite being down to ten men. "We got the red card and the players found another level," he remarked. Their impressive win was marked by complete control from the outset, demonstrating their determination to turn things around positively.
Micky on THAT goal pic.twitter.com/laMKRovp1x
- Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) November 4, 2025
This victory provided much-needed momentum for Spurs following their recent struggles. The team's ability to bounce back effectively highlights their potential for future success in both domestic and European competitions.
