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Roberto De Zerbi explains why Tottenham ‘deserved to lose the game in the second half’ against Leeds

Roberto De Zerbi admits Tottenham deserved to lose after poor second-half performance against Leeds United at Elland Road.

By Rohan Sengupta · To The Lane And Back

Published: Saturday, 7 November 2026 at 5:06 PM

Key Things to Know

Roberto De Zerbi admitted Tottenham Hotspur deserved to lose their match after a poor second-half display against Leeds United.
Leeds United defeated Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 courtesy of a late goal from substitute Noah Okafor.
The 1-0 defeat ended Tottenham's three-game winning streak and four-match unbeaten run in the Premier League.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi admitted his side deserved to lose after falling 1-0 to Leeds United at Elland Road. The defeat ended Tottenham's three-game winning run following a late goal by Leeds substitute Noah Okafor, who scored past goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky.

Speaking after the match, De Zerbi criticized his team's spirit, character, and physicality during a flat second-half performance. Writer Rohan Sengupta agreed with the manager's assessment, noting that Tottenham's attack appeared toothless despite goalkeeper Kinsky keeping the scoreline respectable.

Read the full article on To The Lane And Back