Frank Proud Despite Loss, Enrique Credits for Super Cup Win
Thomas Frank admitted his “special operation” ultimately fell short but expressed pride in his Tottenham players after they let a two-goal lead slip, losing the Super Cup to Paris Saint-Germain on penalties. Spurs looked on course for silverware just three months after Ange Postecoglou’s Europa League triumph, but PSG fought back to snatch victory.
A Dream Start Turns Painful
Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero scored from set pieces to give Spurs a commanding advantage. PSG, who had only resumed pre-season a week earlier following their Club World Cup campaign, seemed out of the contest until late on. Kang-in Lee pulled one back in the 85th minute before Goncalo Ramos equalised deep into stoppage time, forcing a penalty shootout.
Penalty Drama and Missed Chances
In the shootout, Tottenham took control early when Vitinha missed for PSG and Rodrigo Bentancur scored. But Van de Ven and Mathys Tel both failed to convert, allowing PSG to seal a 4-3 win after a 2-2 draw. It was Frank’s first competitive match in charge, and his tactical tweaks had looked successful for most of the evening.
Frank’s Tactical “Special Operation”
Frank opted for a back-three system to maximise set-piece threats and disrupt PSG’s rhythm. “Very proud of the players, the team, the fans,” he said. “We were perfect for 75, maybe 80 minutes. The game plan was different—more direct at times, focusing heavily on set pieces. The operation was close to working, but in the end, the result didn’t go our way.”
Enrique’s Substitutions Shift Momentum
Romero’s second-half header had Spurs fans dreaming, but Luis Enrique’s wave of substitutions swung the momentum in PSG’s favour. Frank vowed to lift spirits quickly ahead of Saturday’s Premier League opener against Burnley, sticking to his 24-hour rule for disappointment.
Enrique’s Honest Reflection
PSG boss Luis Enrique admitted his team were fortunate. “We didn’t deserve the trophy,” he said. “Tottenham had six weeks of preparation; we had six days. For the first 80 minutes, we struggled with poor passing. Maybe luck was on our side.” Despite this, PSG leave with another piece of silverware, while Spurs are left with lessons to carry into the season.
