Son Heung-min Intervenes as Maddison and Porro Clash During Tottenham’s Europa League Victory
Tottenham Hotspur captain Son Heung-min was forced to step between teammates James Maddison and Pedro Porro during a heated on-field disagreement in their Europa League match against AZ Alkmaar. The intervention came at a crucial moment as Spurs overcame a first-leg deficit to secure their place in the quarter-finals.
Thursday night saw Ange Postecoglou’s side deliver an impressive 3-1 home victory over the Dutch club, overturning their previous 1-0 defeat to advance 3-1 on aggregate. Goals from Wilson Odobert (2) and James Maddison sealed the comeback win for the Premier League outfit.
However, tensions flared just before half-time when Tottenham, already leading 1-0 on the night to level the aggregate score, were awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position. What should have been a routine set-piece turned into an uncomfortable moment for the home side.
Captain Son Steps In as Teammates Exchange Heated Words
As designated set-piece specialist Maddison prepared to take the free-kick, right-back Pedro Porro approached and attempted to take the ball from his teammate. The situation quickly escalated with both players exchanging words, prompting captain Son to intervene and separate his teammates.
The Korean international’s leadership was evident as he calmly mediated the dispute, ultimately ensuring Maddison maintained his role as the free-kick taker as presumably designated by the coaching staff.
Fans on social media were quick to react to the on-field disagreement:
- “I don’t get why this happens, clubs will have their designated set piece takers. This isn’t just disrespectful to the taker but also the manager. It’s playground stuff!” one supporter commented.
- Another added: “Son is practically babysitting a bunch of kids. All the time these two fights on free kicks. Gotta feel sorry for the guy, he has too much on his plate.”
Fortunately, any lingering tension between the two appeared short-lived. Just minutes into the second half, Porro was spotted joining Maddison’s celebration after the midfielder doubled Tottenham’s lead in the 48th minute, suggesting the disagreement had been quickly resolved.
The incident highlights Son’s growing importance as a leader within the Spurs dressing room since taking the captaincy. His ability to manage personalities and defuse potential conflicts on the pitch demonstrates why Postecoglou entrusted him with the armband.
Tottenham’s victory ensures they progress to the Europa League quarter-finals, where they face German side Eintracht Frankfurt. This keeps alive Postecoglou’s ambition to deliver silverware in just his second season at the North London club.
The determined performance against AZ Alkmaar showcased Spurs’ fighting spirit, with Odobert’s brace and Maddison’s goal turning around what could have been a disappointing European exit. Instead, Tottenham remain firmly in contention for European glory this season.
Looking ahead to the quarter-finals? Follow our complete Europa League coverage as Tottenham continues their quest for European silverware against Eintracht Frankfurt. Will Postecoglou’s men go all the way? Join the conversation in the comments section!