If any player is late to apply pressure, the opposition player has time and space on the ball, essentially giving them a man advantage. Under Thomas Frank, Spurs' defensive approach was more passive, often defending in a more rigid defensive block. Spurs' 5-3-2 shape lacks coverage in the wide areas with the wing-backs the only constants here. When Spurs pressed from this central shape, Atletico Madrid, Fulham and Crystal Palace smartly placed players in wide and deep areas, increasing the distance Tottenham's players had to run to apply pressure. This gave them time on the ball but also stretched Spurs' shape, out of possession, opening up gaps to exploit up-field.

Source: Express March 12, 2026 13:52 UTC