PLAYER RATINGS: Real Madrid 1-1 Tottenham Hotspur

Hugo Lloris – 9: The Frenchman has received criticism from sections of Spurs’ fanbase this season but pulled off a minimum of two world class saves tonight, especially those to deny Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo. A true captain’s performance.

Serge Aurier – 7: Gave Marcelo a tough night at both ends of the field, providing the assist for Spurs’ goal with one of several pinpoint crosses. Only marked down because he gave away the penalty which led to Madrid’s equaliser. The error wasn’t the tackle, which probably had to be made; but the fact he allowed Kroos in behind. A more than impressive outing from the Ivorian.

Davinson Sanchez – 8: Has had a mixed start to life at Spurs, with some criticising his rashness in the tackle but he showed just what he can do tonight with a solid outing at the Bernabeu. Got caught out of position a couple of times but, on the whole, won his challenges and showed maturity beyond his years.

Eric Dier – 9: A common theme amongst Spurs’ performances is the ability to miss what Dier does for the side. His ability to seamlessly drift from centre-back to centre midfield provides Mauricio Pochettino’s side with versatility and, again, this was on display tonight. Passed the ball out well, dropped in between the wide centre backs smartly and made some timely interceptions to prevent Madrid counter attacks and through balls. Outstanding.

Toby Alderweireld – 8: Another one who has received criticism – mostly for not living up to his usual high standards – the Belgian was his usual rock-like self tonight. Occupying the left centre-back role, he showed no signs of being fazed despite being required to use his weaker foot on occasion; and linked well with best mate, Jan Vertonghen.

Jan Vertonghen – 8: Speaking of Vertonghen, another more than impressive left-back performance for a player who isn’t the youngest. Obviously didn’t get forward as much as Aurier, or as much as Ben Davies or Danny Rose may have, but was required to break up play on several occasions and clear his lines. A real leader at the back, too.

Harry Winks – 8: So assured, so composed, so tidy. Many have compared the young man to Luka Modric and, judging by his performance against the Croatian, the parallels are evident. He’s obviously got some way to go to reach the former Spurs midfielder’s level but he the stylistic similarities are there for all to see. Another very mature performance from a very young man.

Moussa Sissoko – 8: Much maligned last season, the Frenchman has come into his own in this new role and flourished again tonight. Was key in helping Aurier defend down the right but also provided pace and athleticism in attack; starting off several breaks and playing some smart passes. His rise is a huge credit to his attitude and the coaching of Pochettino. £30million are beginning to look much better spent.

Christian Eriksen – 6: Surprisingly, the most disappointing tonight. Numerous passes went astray and he often allowed Modric too much room. Did his job defensively, with some vital clearances but on the whole, he’ll be disappointed with his night’s work. A better showing and Spurs could have gone home with all three points, who knows?

Fernando Llorente – 7: The Spaniard could easily have received an 8/10 because he held up the ball immaculately and nearly set up Harry Kane for the winner. His presence and experience up front are not only a huge help to Spurs at the moment, but a guide for Kane on adapting your style with age. It can be argued that he should’ve got himself into the box more when crosses came in as, at times, Kane was left isolated around three to four of the home side’s defenders. Overall, very impressive.

Harry Kane – 8: Imagine if he’d got a touch on the goal! A really good showing again from Tottenham’s main man – who worked Raphael Varane and Sergio Ramos into the ground. Forced errors, pressed tirelessly and could (should?) have won the game late on for Spurs. There can be no remaining doubts about his world class status.

Mauricio Pochettino – 10: He’s made errors in big games before and when tonight’s teams were released, many thought Tim Sherwood had somehow found his way back into the hot seat. But it turns out the Argentine got it spot on. Spurs didn’t “park the bus”, nor did they go gung ho, but treated fans to a sensible, mature performance. It wouldn’t have been harsh on Madrid if Spurs had won it – which speaks volumes about Pochettino and his side. Just like his side, he’s maturing into the realm of the elite and it’s a pleasure to watch.

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