Son Heung-min Slams Spurs’ Europa League Display After AZ Alkmaar Defeat

Tottenham Captain Criticizes “Sloppy” Performance

Tottenham Hotspur suffered a 1-0 defeat to AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League last-16 first leg, prompting captain Son Heung-min to deliver a brutal assessment of his team’s performance.

A Lucas Bergvall own goal proved decisive in a game where Spurs failed to register any attacking threat, managing just one shot on target across 90 minutes.

Son, involved in a miscommunication with James Maddison during a rare attacking sequence, admitted the team was nowhere near the required level.

“It’s nowhere near where we should perform. It was very disappointing, including myself. It’s a big wake-up call because next week is the biggest game of the season.”

The South Korean forward did not hold back, emphasizing the team’s lack of creativity and urgency:

“We didn’t create anything in the first half. Sloppiness, not performing the way we should. Everyone is disappointed with their own performance and the team’s performance.”

Despite the poor display, Son remains hopeful:

“It’s just 1-0, it’s still not finished, and next week we have to be much better.”

Postecoglou’s Verdict: Mindset, Not Effort, Was the Problem

Manager Ange Postecoglou echoed Son’s frustration, but stressed that the issue was mental rather than physical.

“It wasn’t about effort or attitude; we just didn’t have the right mindset for an away game in Europe.”

The lack of intensity was particularly disappointing given Spurs had an eight-day break before the match. With domestic cup eliminations and Premier League struggles, the Europa League remains Tottenham’s best shot at silverware this season.

Can Spurs Bounce Back in North London?

With the second leg at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium next Thursday, Son and his teammates have one last chance to turn the tie around.

Can Spurs recover and keep their European hopes alive? Drop your thoughts below! 👇