So much for taking it easy before the World Cup. A frantic and breathless encounter between Tottenham and Leeds, which swung wildly and thrillingly in both directions, ended with what is now a familiar story, as Antonio Conte’s emotionally and physically drained side dragged themselves to the finish line. The unpredictability of the final Premier League weekend before Qatar delivered a classic, with all the hallmarks of Tottenham’s recent run. For boxes ticked see: a slow start, a second-half comeback, and a late winner scored by Rodrigo Bentancur.
The Uruguayan’s two goals in the space of two minutes did more than just turn the match around and earn Tottenham a 4-3 win, it changes the mood around Spurs heading into what is now a six-week gap between matches. Tottenham seemed to be heading for their fourth defeat in five Premier League games and may have finished the weekend outside of the top four. Instead, when they return on Boxing Day, they will do so three points behind Manchester City and with this crazy ride still somewhat ticking along on track.
