At a glance:
- Tottenham get their first win of 2026
- Joao Palhinha scores against Wolves again
- All relegation candidates win
Tottenham Hotspur finally were able to register their first Premier League game of 2026, as they beat Wolves 1-0 at the Molineux on Saturday
Roberto De Zerbi’s team started well, showing great energy both on and off the ball. Their press led to multiple turnovers and some opportunities. However, they failed to create many chances out of them.
Wolves then grew into the game with some corners, but again, the relegated side were toothless, and the first half went into a lull.
Dominic Solanke had to be substituted due to a hamstring injury, as Richarlison took his place. However, overall, it was the first half that lacked edge from either side.
It was a poor start in the second half for Tottenham, as they allowed Wolves to create some opportunities and gain some momentum. They did have one good chance, but Rodrigo Bentancur’s header was brilliantly saved by Jose Sa.
However, in a drab game, Spurs finally found a crucial goal in the 82nd minute. Joao Palhinha scored from close range after a deflected shot from Richarlison fell to him nicely after a corner.
It was a nervy remainder of the game for Tottenham, with Antonin Kinsky making a brilliant save in stoppage time.
However, they managed to hold on for an absolutely crucial win. While it doesn’t take them out of the relegation zone for now, it would be a huge boost for the north London side.
They will now hope to take belief from this and take it to Villa Park as they face Aston Villa next weekend.
Tottenham Player Ratings against Wolves
Antonin Kinsky – 8/10
He was solid in the game, especially on set pieces. He made some decent saves and was tidy in possession.
He made a crucial Manuel Neuer-type flying clearance in the second half and an even better save in stoppage time.
Pedro Porro – 5.5/10
Was quite wasteful in the game, especially considering he had to be the only creator for a drab Tottenham. He was also untidy in defence, leading to some set pieces and chances for Wolves.
Kevin Danso – 6/10
He didn’t have much to do in the first half, but dealt well with whatever little he faced. He, however, almost gifted Wolves a goal in the second half, but Kinsky saved his blushes.
Also Read: Cristian Romero reveals what Roberto De Zerbi has immediately changed at Tottenham
Micky van de Ven – 6.5/10
He didn’t have much to do in the game, but dealt largely neatly with the little that came his way.
Djed Spence – 6/10
Made a lot of driving runs on the left flank early on, but often lost possession. He, however, didn’t give up many chances to Wolves in defence.
Conor Gallagher – 6/10
Another drab performance from Gallagher, where he ran a lot and showed a lot of energy, but did nothing of note on the ball. His combination with Kolo Muani on the right helped Wolves a lot in defense.
Also Read: Roberto De Zerbi makes important Conor Gallagher confession during first Tottenham press conference
Yves Bissouma – 7/10
Showed really good composure on the ball, helping Tottenham create space at times. He couldn’t have done much from his position in attacking terms.
Rodrigo Bentancur – 7.5/10
Was largely neat and tidy in possession and covered for his teammates well. Also saw a terrific header being saved by Jose Sa. He helped Spurs manage the game well, especially after their goal.
Xavi Simons – 6/10
He tried to create some opportunities, but didn’t get much support from his attacking partners. He had the only good chance for Spurs in the first hour, but couldn’t convert it. However, unfortunately, he had to go off due to what appeared to be a terrible knee injury.
Dominic Solanke – 6/10
Started really well, being a constant nuisance for Wolves defenders with his pressing and runs. However, he was unable to create an impact. Unfortunately, he had to come off in the 38th minute due to a hamstring injury.
Also Read: Arsenal and Tottenham to battle it out for Germany’s ‘greatest striking talent’
Randal Kolo Muani – 5/10
Another poor performance from the PSG loanee. He showed a lot of energy and pressed well, but failed to make much of an impact on the ball.
Substitutes:
Richarlison – 6.5/10
He fought well for the headers and second balls after coming on. He was also involved in the crucial winner for Tottenham, despite getting barely any opportunities all game.
Joao Palhinha – 7/10
He scored the absolutely crucial winning goal for Tottenham on the night. It marked his second late goal for Spurs against Wolves this season, earning them the points they so desperately needed.
Lucas Bergvall – 6/10
Came on for Simons but was almost anonymous for the remainder of the game.
Mathys Tel – 7.5/10
He tried to drive the team forward as he often does. He also created some decent opportunities, helping Spurs win some corners. He did exceedingly well to win the corner that led to the goal.
Radu Dragusin – N/A
He came on in stoppage time to shut up shop for Spurs and didn’t do enough to warrant a rating.
