Tottenham Hotspur finally registered their first Premier League point of the season with a 0-0 draw away to Nottingham Forest on Saturday. The result ends a run of two straight defeats but leaves Roberto De Zerbi's side still searching for their first goal of the campaign.
Spurs dominated possession at the City Ground but failed to create clear-cut chances against a resolute Forest defence. The visitors had 12 shots but none were on target, continuing a worrying trend in front of goal. They have now failed to score in their opening three league matches, a feat not seen at the club since the 1974/75 season.
The most positive takeaway for De Zerbi was a first clean sheet of the season. After conceding five goals in their first two games, the defensive unit looked far more organised. Goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky was rarely tested, a sign of the improved structure in front of him. The midfield, led by Sandro Tonali, did a better job of breaking up play and initiating transitions. This solid base provides a platform to build upon, even if the attacking issues persist.
Three summer arrivals made their Premier League debuts for Spurs in this match. Omar Marmoush, Savio, and Mykhailo Mudryk all saw action as De Zerbi seeks to integrate his new options. Savio was a bright spark throughout, showing good movement and intent. Marmoush came closest to scoring, but his effort was ruled out for a foul in the build-up. Mudryk was introduced in the 75th minute for his first competitive appearance in nearly two years, showing flashes of his pace. Their integration is a work in progress, as the connections with the existing squad are not yet fluid.
Nottingham Forest thought they had taken the lead in the second half when Neco Williams turned the ball home. Celebrations around the ground were cut short after a VAR review determined the ball had struck Williams' arm before he scored. The officials judged it a deliberate handball, ruling the goal out and giving Tottenham a significant reprieve. That moment showed the fine margins in a tight contest where clear chances were at a premium.
The single point moves Spurs off the bottom of the Premier League table, but they remain in the relegation zone after three matches. The immediate focus turns to ending the goal drought and converting possession into results. The team's next opportunity comes in their following fixture, a home match against Aston Villa scheduled for September 14th. Fans can track the team's position and upcoming schedule on our standings and fixtures pages. De Zerbi will have a full week on the training ground to work with his squad before that match at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
