Mauricio Pochettino believes that, in a way, Tottenham’s first-half performance in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg “was one of the best games that we’ve played”.
Tottenham were knocked out of the competition on penalties after a 2-1 defeat in 90 minutes, having won the first leg 1-0.
The injury-hit visitors went two goals down in the first half but pulled one back through Fernando Llorente, before losing 4-2 in a penalty shootout.
Despite the result, Pochettino says that he told his players at half-time that “it was one of the best games that we’ve played”.
“I told the players that the way we played from the back in the first half, it was one of the best games that we’ve played,” he said.
“Of course it was tough to arrive in the last third. Until we conceded the first goal I think it was under control but then we conceded the second goal quickly.
“I told the players I feel so proud. We have unbelievable players and squad, the effort was brilliant.
“Everyone saw the performance of the team, and how we play. I can only feel proud and congratulate them.”