The late challenge of Micky van de Ven on Georges Mikautadze was a clear example of a challenge in which Spurs should not have become involved. The Villarreal Bench and the 200-our-our-our-our fans in the stadium were driving for a red card.
Tottenham progressed last night in the first phase of the Champions League with a performance that started clear enough but slowly descended into a mis-falling defensive Wack-a-Mole.
In the closing 20 minutes of the second half, Thomas Frank’s men lost their calmness, and it felt like the nerves had been getting in.
Panic stations for traces! 🚨
Tottenham survives a late Var -Scharik, because Van de Ven’s challenge was assessed as outside the penalty area 👀 pic.twitter.com/yxybrmka0y
– Amazon Prime Video Sport (@primeevideosport) September 16, 2025
Former PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited) Chief Keith Hackett criticized the decision and stated that VAR should have intervened for an assessment on the field, because the error justified a sending justified. He noticed:
“I can only imagine that the competition officer was of the opinion that the chance of the attacker to control the ball and the position of the covering defender had questioned him … To be honest, VAR should have intervened.”
Villarreal manager Marcelino repeated this and called it one of “two really clear actions” where Tottenham players (including Xavi Simons earlier) escaped the punishment.
Dimitar Berbatov, a former striker of Tottenham, agreed live Amazon Prime:
“I think Spurs was lucky with this one, not to escape with anything.” The incident could have given Villarreal a numerical advantage and a fine (if it is considered in the box), which may change the outcome of the game. “
Wayne Rooney, another expert at Amazon Prime, defended the call:
“I think it’s a yellow card and the right decision has been made. The ball goes away and the keeper is in a good position. I think if the referee gives a red, it will not be destroyed. ‘
“I think it’s a yellow card and the right decision has been made.”
The error took place just outside the box and Mikautadze’s control over the ball was not fully insured, with the ball bouncing awkwardly.
Spurs must take control of opponents such as Villarreal.
#Tottenham #Villareal #Micky #van #Ven #Pgmol #Keih #Hackett