The international break is often more of a trial than a rest for Tottenham supporters. The third pause of the season arrived before Christmas, forcing the coaching staff to once again watch their players travel across the globe. Most matches carried significance as teams competed for qualification for the World Cup.
Several Spurs players were given time off during the second half of the break. Pedro Porro remained on the bench as Spain drew with Turkey. Djed Spence was an unused substitute in England’s win over Albania, and Richarlison did not feature for Brazil against Tunisia. Joao Palhinha also did not play despite Portugal’s emphatic nine-goal victory over Armenia. Guglielmo Vicario kept a clean sheet against Moldova, but Italy later suffered a heavy defeat to Norway.
Micky van de Ven rested after a recent injury, while Xavi Simons took advantage of his starting opportunity for the Netherlands and scored against Lithuania. Cristian Romero and Pape Matar Sarr did not take part in matches, with Sarr sidelined by a minor injury from the game against Brazil and Romero playing only one friendly for Argentina after the planned match with Australia was cancelled.
Brennan Johnson shone brightly as he helped Wales to a dominant 7–1 victory over North Macedonia. He recorded an assist and a fine goal, making a major contribution to his team’s World Cup qualification campaign. On the other hand, Rodrigo Bentancur endured a difficult night as he was sent off for a rough challenge in Uruguay’s 1–5 loss to the United States. Kevin Danso played two full matches for Austria and provided one assist.
Among former Tottenham players, Troy Parrott impressed by scoring a hat-trick for Ireland, confirming his excellent form throughout the break.
Spurs fans now hope that all internationals return fit and ready for the North London derby awaiting the team immediately after the resumption of club football.
