Thomas Frank praises Guglielmo Vicario heroics as Tottenham cling on for draw in Monaco

Injury-hit Tottenham were second best for much of the night at Stade Louis II and relied heavily on Vicario, who produced several superb saves to deny Folarin Balogun and Thilo Kehrer. The Italian goalkeeper faced criticism after the weekend defeat to Aston Villa but responded in style to keep Spurs unbeaten in their group.

"I think the two goals against Villa were just great finishes, not mistakes," Frank said. "Tonight, Guglielmo was outstanding. Some of his saves were exceptional and he played a big part in us getting a hard-fought point. On nights like this, that point can be crucial."

Tottenham created few chances, with Brennan Johnson's late effort blocked by Christian Mawissa and defender Micky van de Ven heading over an earlier opportunity, while teammate Kevin Danso saw a header ruled out for a foul. Frank made the surprise decision to drop big-money playmaker Xavi Simons, and the visitors lacked fluency in attack throughout the match.

The result marked Tottenham's first goalless draw in 125 matches, dating back to their 0-0 against AC Milan in March 2023. Spurs now sit on five points from their opening three European fixtures but were greeted with boos from sections of the travelling support after another uneven performance.

"It was a fairly even first half," Frank admitted. "In the second, Monaco were better. We lacked intensity, especially after the break, and a few players weren't at the level they normally are. But that happens. We're still learning to play Champions League football, and away games like this are always tough."

Monaco, under new head coach Sebastien Pocognoli, dominated possession and registered 23 shots but could not find a way past Vicario. The home boss admitted frustration but praised the goalkeeper's brilliance.

"(Vicario) was outstanding. He made some great saves and wastes a lot of time between each free-kick and long kicks, it was nice for him. But he played a good game. he's the man of the match," Pocognoli said.

Despite Monaco's pressure, Tottenham's defensive resilience ensured they left the Principality with a clean sheet. Spurs remain unbeaten in Europe this season (one win, two draws), while Monaco are still without a victory after three matches.

Frank's side return to Premier League action at the weekend before hosting Monaco in the return fixture next month, a match that could prove decisive in their push for the Champions League knockout stage.

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