Mathys Tel finally got off the mark for the 2025-26 season as Tottenham claimed a 2-1 victory at Leeds United. The 20-year-old French forward, who joined Spurs permanently over the summer following his January loan, had struggled for consistent form at Hotspur Lane. Against Leeds, he showed why the club invested in him, turning hard work in training into a crucial contribution on the pitch.

Tel’s goal, Tottenham’s opener, came from a well-timed run into the box and a sharp finish that took a deflection off Leeds defender Pascal Struijk. While luck played a small part, his movement and awareness were evident, and it highlighted the progress he has made in adapting to Thomas Frank’s system. He had been working intensively on his finishing, positioning, and composure in front of goal, and it was clear that effort paid off. Here is what he had to say post game via BBC:

“That was a tough game for us. The opponent played very well. We deserved to win because we fought until the end.”

“I worked this week a lot on finishing. I’m very happy for me. I hope I can help the team more and keep going.”

“We are always together,...