Tottenham Hotspur’s Champions League hopes took a hit as they suffered a 5-2 defeat to Atlético Madrid in the round of 16 first leg, with Ghanaian midfielder Mohammed Kudus missing the match due to injury.
Llorente put the hosts ahead inside six minutes before Griezmann doubled the lead with a quarter of the game gone.
Julian Alvarez was on hand to appl the finishing touch a minute later as Atletico run riot in tbe opening 15 minutes, leaving Spurs fans missing the influence of Kudus.
Le Normand added a fourth after 22 minutes before Pedro Porro pulled one back for the visitors inside 26 minutes.
The lopsided first half did not end the thrilling affair as Alvarez bagged his brace 10 minutes into the second half to put the result beyond Spurs, who scored a second through Dominic Solanke in the final quarter of the game.
The result means Mohammed Kudus’ side will have it all to do in the second leg with the Ghanaian ruled out of the tie as well.
Kudus, who has been instrumental in Spurs’ season, has been sidelined since January with a thigh and hamstring injury.
Igor Tudor’s side has struggled without Kudus, losing four games in a row, including this latest defeat to Atlético Madrid.
The Ghanaian midfielder’s absence has been deeply felt, with his creativity and energy missing from the Spurs attack.
Kudus has scored three goals and provided six assists for Spurs this season, making him a key player for the team.
Kudus is currently undergoing rehabilitation and is expected to return to full training after the March international break.
His possible return date is April 11, against Sunderland.
The Ghana national football team is closely monitoring his progress, with the Black Stars hoping to have him back for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
Spurs’ Injury Crisis
Tottenham’s injury woes continue, with several key players sidelined, including Dejan Kulusevski, James Maddison, Ben Davies, Lucas Bergvall, Rodrigo Bentancur, and Wilson Odobert.
Djed Spence has returned to training, but Destiny Udogie is still recovering from a hamstring injury.
What Awaits Kudus
Kudus’ return to action will be crucial for Spurs, who are struggling in the Premier League. The Ghanaian midfielder will need to regain his fitness and form to make an impact on the pitch.
With the World Cup looming, Kudus’ recovery is also vital for the Black Stars, who will rely on his skills and experience to succeed.
