Tottenham took a significant step toward the Europa League Round of 16 after defeating Hoffenheim 2-3 on Thursday. The English team displayed its sharpness, led by an effective Heung-Min Son, who scored twice.

Spurs' Strong Start

The team managed by Ange Postecoglou practically sealed the match within the first 20 minutes. James Maddison opened the scoring with a goal in the 4th minute, and South Korean Heung-Min Son extended the lead to 0-2 in the 22nd minute.

It seemed like Tottenham considered the match over at this point, allowing Hoffenheim to dominate after being completely overwhelmed in the opening stages.

The German side created several goal-scoring opportunities but lacked precision in front of the net. When they managed to threaten, Brandon Austin, the English goalkeeper, stepped up with crucial saves to deny the hosts.

Hoffenheim's Response and Tottenham's Reaction

Hoffenheim's persistence finally paid off in the 68th minute when Anton Stach reduced the deficit with a goal to make it 1-2. However, the goal sparked Tottenham back to life.

In the 77th minute, Heung-Min Son struck again, showcasing his class by finishing off a quick transition led by the young Mikey Moore, only 17 years old, to score the 1-3.

French player David Mokwa Ntusu found the back of the net in the 88th minute for Hoffenheim, setting the final score at 2-3, but it was too late for the German team.

Spurs One Step Away From the Round of 16

With this victory, Tottenham secures a spot among the top eight teams that advance directly to the Europa League Round of 16. In the final group-stage match, the English side will host Sweden's Elfsborg to wrap up this phase of the competition.