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Tottenham’s most important player became even more obvious when Leeds shut him down

Tottenham Hotspur had a rough afternoon at Elland Road, losing 1-0 to a Leeds United side that they were confident in defeating, having won three games in a row…

By Joe Soriano · Hotspurhq

Published: Saturday, 7 November 2026 at 8:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Joe Soriano argues Sandro Tonali's importance to Tottenham was highlighted when Leeds United neutralized him in a 1-0 loss.
Leeds United defeated Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 at Elland Road to halt Spurs' three-game winning streak.
Tonali completed barely 70 percent of his passes and recorded no key passes or completed dribbles.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Tottenham Hotspur suffered a 1-0 defeat against Leeds United at Elland Road, ending a three-match winning streak. Writer Joe Soriano argues that the match demonstrated Sandro Tonali's status as Tottenham's most vital player, as Leeds effectively dismantled Spurs' system by suffocating the Italian midfielder and denying him time on the ball.

According to Soriano, Tonali registered barely a 70 percent pass completion rate, recorded no key passes, and lost possession through four unforced errors. The author criticizes manager Roberto De Zerbi and Tonali's teammates for failing to provide tactical solutions or share the creative burden once Leeds successfully neutralized him.

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Tottenham’s most important player became even more obvious when Leeds shut him down

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