Can Micky van de Ven's Stunning Solo Goal Win the Puskas Award? Tottenham's 4-0 Champions League Triumph Over Copenhagen Leaves Fans in Awe
November 04, 2025
Tottenham Hotspur delivered a commanding performance against Copenhagen, securing a 4-0 victory that significantly boosts their chances of advancing to the Champions League knockout stages. What makes this win even more remarkable is that Spurs played with ten men for much of the second half after Brennan Johnson's red card. But here's where it gets controversial: despite the numerical disadvantage, Thomas Frank's side not only held their ground but thrived, scoring twice more in what could be their most impressive display under his leadership. Is this the turning point for Tottenham's season?
The match kicked off with Tottenham taking the lead just before the 20-minute mark. A costly error from Copenhagen in their own half allowed Rodrigo Bentancur to regain possession and set up Xavi Simons. Simons, with a moment of brilliance, spotted Johnson making a run behind the defense and delivered a precise pass. Copenhagen's goalkeeper, Dominik Kotarski, rushed out but missed the challenge, allowing Johnson to calmly slot the ball home from a tight angle. Was this the moment that set the tone for Tottenham's dominance?
Spurs had a golden opportunity to double their lead before halftime when a fluid team move ended with Simons setting up Randal Kolo Muani. However, the striker inexplicably fired wide from close range, missing his chance to open his account for the club. Could this missed opportunity have been a turning point if the game had been closer?
The second half began with Tottenham finding their second goal. Pedro Porro's long ball was chased down by Kolo Muani, who blocked Kotarski's clearance and set up Wilson Odobert for a simple finish. But the game took a dramatic turn when Johnson was sent off in the 57th minute for a high challenge on Marcos Lopez. Did the referee make the right call, or was VAR too harsh?
Surprisingly, the red card seemed to galvanize Tottenham. Joao Palhinha won back possession near the edge of the penalty area, and Micky van de Ven embarked on a breathtaking solo run, sprinting the length of the pitch before firing past a helpless Kotarski. Seconds later, another quick counterattack saw Odobert set up Cristian Romero, who teed up Palhinha for Spurs' fourth goal. Is van de Ven's goal a contender for the Puskas Award, and does it redefine his role as a modern defender?
Richarlison came close to adding to the scoreline, hitting the crossbar twice—first with a powerful header and then from the penalty spot after Dane Scarlett was tripped. Despite these misses, Tottenham's victory was never in doubt. Does Richarlison's misfortune overshadow Tottenham's overall performance?
GOAL rates Spurs' players from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, highlighting individual contributions that made this win possible.
Goalkeeper & Defence
Guglielmo Vicario (6/10): Once criticized for his inability to handle crosses, the Italian goalkeeper dominated his area, confidently dealing with Copenhagen's attacks. His shot-stopping was rarely tested.
Pedro Porro (7/10): Despite a shaky start with a couple of giveaways, Porro's defensive performance was a marked improvement. His long ball for Odobert's goal was a game-changer.
Cristian Romero (7/10): Romero seamlessly covered for van de Ven's forward runs, even briefly finding himself in an attacking role before setting up Palhinha for the fourth goal.
Micky van de Ven (8/10): After a controversial exit against Chelsea, van de Ven silenced critics with a flawless defensive display and a goal that will be remembered for years. Is this the moment he cements his place as a Tottenham legend?
Destiny Udogie (7/10): Udogie provided much-needed width on the left, combining effectively with Odobert before being substituted for Djed Spence.
Midfield
Rodrigo Bentancur (7/10): Rebounding from recent criticism, Bentancur delivered a solid performance, winning back possession and distributing the ball with pace.
Pape Matar Sarr (7/10): Sarr was the driving force behind Tottenham's direct play, constantly looking to move the ball forward and involve the attackers.
Xavi Simons (8/10): Simons had his best game since joining Spurs, setting up Johnson's opener and creating two more chances for Kolo Muani. His substitution for Palhinha after the red card was a tactical masterstroke.
Attack
Brennan Johnson (7/10): Johnson's night was a mix of highs and lows. His well-taken goal gave Spurs the lead, but his red card left them a man down. Did his early exit cost Tottenham a chance at an even bigger win?
Randal Kolo Muani (7/10): Despite missing clear-cut chances, Kolo Muani's movement and assist for Odobert were crucial. His standing ovation when substituted for Richarlison showed the fans' appreciation.
Wilson Odobert (8/10): Odobert's goal and growing understanding with his teammates make a strong case for him to become a regular starter. Is he the solution to Tottenham's left-wing conundrum?
Subs & Manager
Joao Palhinha (7/10): Brought on to stabilize the midfield, Palhinha not only scored but also played a key role in van de Ven's goal.
Richarlison (5/10): Despite hitting the bar twice, Richarlison's impact was limited.
Djed Spence (6/10): Provided solid defensive cover after replacing Udogie.
Kevin Danso (6/10): Came on for Romero without any major incidents.
Dane Scarlett (7/10): Made the most of his rare first-team minutes, winning the penalty that Richarlison missed.
Thomas Frank (9/10): After the Chelsea debacle, Frank's tactical decisions and substitutions were spot on, earning him much-needed praise from fans. Has he turned the corner in his Tottenham tenure?
Final Thoughts
Tottenham's performance against Copenhagen was a statement of intent. But this is the part most people miss: Can they maintain this level of consistency, or was this a one-off display? With van de Ven's goal already a contender for the Puskas Award, the question remains: Is this the season Tottenham finally fulfills their potential? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—do you think Tottenham can go all the way, or is there still work to be done?
