Tottenham Hotspur enjoyed a much-needed boost on a memorable Champions League night, helped by an emotional return for club legend Son Heung-min, the continued rise of Xavi Simons, and a growing sense that manager Thomas Frank may finally be turning a difficult season around.

Son, who scored 173 goals in 454 matches during a glittering Spurs career, returned to north London for the first time since his summer move to Los Angeles FC. The timing couldn’t have been better. Before kick-off, the South Korean icon addressed supporters, receiving a roaring welcome that set the tone for an uplifting evening at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

His presence added energy to a club that has struggled with tension and criticism this season, particularly aimed at Frank as he attempts to handle a high-pressure job far removed from the environment he transformed at Brentford.

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A Vital Night for Frank and Spurs

The Champions League clash against Slavia Prague offered an important opportunity for Spurs to maintain momentum after a disappointing home defeat to Fulham earlier in the month. That loss led Frank to publicly challenge parts of the fanbase who jeered goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario — a risky move that required strong results to justify his words.

In the past week, Spurs have responded. They fought back to earn a draw at Newcastle United, convincingly beat Frank’s former club Brentford, and then delivered a confident 3–0 victory over Slavia Prague. With each match, their mini-revival grows stronger.

Before the Brentford win, Tottenham had managed only three home league victories from 16 matches in 2025, losing 10 — a statistic Frank desperately needed to reverse. This European win, even if imperfect, represents another step in the right direction.

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Simons and Kudus Shine as Spurs Take Control

Slavia Prague had chances, but Tottenham always felt in command. Their opening goal came after David Sima accidentally sent a header into his own net following a flick-on from Cristian Romero off a Pedro Porro corner.

In the second half, Spurs sealed the game from the penalty spot — twice.

• Mohammed Kudus converted the first penalty after some debate with teammate Xavi Simons over who would take it.
• Simons then won and scored the second penalty himself after being brought down by Igoh Ogbu, confidently finishing the job after Mathys Tel replaced Kudus.

Simons has been one of Spurs’ brightest sparks recently. He produced a goal and an assist against Brentford and followed that up with another influential performance against Slavia. Frank praised the young star’s link-up play, ability to turn in tight spaces, and willingness to work hard until the final whistle.

Kudus also earned admiration from the manager, who noted that after a slight mid-season dip, the attacker has rediscovered his energy, speed, and decisiveness — all crucial for Spurs’ attacking identity.

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Son’s Return Creates Emotional Lift

Before the match, Son visited a mural painted in his honour outside the stadium, something he had missed during his move to the United States. His appearance generated a powerful emotional lift, not only for the players but for supporters who have experienced frustration and division throughout the season.

Son’s trademark smile returned as Spurs cruised to victory — matched by the smiles of fans who have sometimes struggled to stay positive during the campaign.

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A Step Forward, But More Needed

While Spurs are now close to securing a top-eight position in the Champions League table — which ensures automatic progression to the knockout stage — Thomas Frank understands that one good week is not enough to win over a fanbase still unsure of his leadership.

However, winning always helps. After weeks of criticism and tension, this stretch of results has provided stability, improved morale, and strengthened Frank’s relationship with supporters.

Son’s perfectly timed return, Simons’ continued evolution, and Spurs’ three-match improvement combined to deliver one of the most positive nights of the season — a night that felt like the start of something rather than another false dawn.