Newcastle UnitedThe fine form continues in Premier League as they started 2025 with a wonderful 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur.
However, the home side enjoyed the better start as Dominic Solanke headed Spurs into an early lead. It didn’t take long, the Magpies equalized Anthony Gordonbefore the man of the moment, Alexander Isakhe scored for the seventh league game in a row and put his team in the lead.
Spurs were looking for more goals but the Toon were resilient at the back and the win ensured they stayed fifth in the table.
Where would the club be without Gordon and Isak?
Gordon and Isak’s numbers game against the Spurs
The Swede could have scored twice as he missed a big chance, but his confidence was flowing before the game and the Spurs defense struggled to contain him.
Isaac won three of his four bouts on the groundhe registered two shots and was fouled twice, proving just how much of a threat he was, after enjoying a well-deserved piece of luck after getting the final touch following Radu Dragusin’s initial intervention.
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Key Stats – Tottenham Hotspur v Newcastle United |
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|---|---|
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Stat |
Highest ranked |
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Goal kicks |
Dominic Solanke, Anthony Gordon and Pape Matar Sarr (2) |
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Key passages |
Dejan Kulusevski (4) |
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Won duels on the ground |
Sergio Reguilon (7) |
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Solving |
Dejan Kulusevski and Pedro Porro (5) |
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Precise passes |
Archie Gray (47) |
Gordon was also relentless in the final period. Former Everton winger recorded a total of five shotsmade two key passes, attempted two dribbles and sent six crosses into the opponent’s box.
That work rate was rewarded as the Englishman led his side in a furious opening, the 24-year-old pouncing on a slightly contentious deflection off Joelinton’s arm before coolly slotting past debutant Brandon Austin.
The two are doing everything they can to ensure the club’s return to the Champions League next season, but the real unsung hero for so long has been Bruno Guimaraeswho once again shined against Spurs.
Bruno Guimaraes’ game in numbers against Spurs
The Brazilian has started every Premier League game for the Magpies this term, leading the team to victory ten times in the process.
Against Spurs, the former Lyon midfielder delivered another dominant performance in the heart of the pitch. He managed to grab his fifth assist in the league this term with his through ball that Gordon tapped in to tie the game.
Besides, Guimaraes too scored three key passeshe created a great chance and won an impressive eight tackles during the game, offering no respite to Spurs players looking to advance.
Performance in numbers
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His performance saw the skipper get a match rating 8/10 by Shields Gazette reporter Dominic Scurr, who said Guimaraes ‘took control of the game late in the first half with a dominant midfield’, and there was praise elsewhere.
Football writer Srinivas Sadhanand also showered praises on the Brazilian, describing him as simply “too good” after his comprehensive display in midfield.
If Newcastle secure a place in Europe’s premier club competition next term, it won’t just be because of Isak’s goals or the creative flair of Gordon.
Not. It will all come down to how well Guimaraes play in the heart of midfield over the next 18 league games.
