Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou owes debt of gratitude to ‘exceptional’ Pedro Porro after what he did v Burnley
Tottenham have had Pedro Porro to thank on multiple occasions this season, but the right-back saved by far his biggest contribution to date for the FA Cup.
It was turning into another one of those nights at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Friday 5 January against Burnley.
Plenty of chances, but no cutting edge, and it was quickly becoming an evening which threatened to be spoiled by a late goal for the visitors. That was until Porro stepped up and rescued his side.
His wonder goal in the 78th minute was the difference between Tottenham and Burnley as Ange Postecoglou marked his managerial FA Cup debut with a 1-0 win in the third round.
It was a goal from nothing, and will likely be on replay in the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium when they announce their winner for Goal of the Season in May.
The passage of play demonstrated that Porro is the complete right-back, strong both defensively and offensively. As seen in the image above, the Spaniard made a crucial block as Burnley looked to break.
Having won possession of the ball, the 24-year-old then drove forward into space, with options all around him.
Instead of passing, he chose to take the shot on himself from distance, a decision which would have likely been criticised if it wasn’t for the incredible quality of the finish.
It was the type of strike which everyone in the ground would have known was going in as soon as it left Porro’s boot, with the former Sporting Lisbon man getting ready to wheel away in celebration before the ball had even nestled in the top left-hand corner.
His manager, Ange Postecoglou, emphasised that fact after the match while speaking on Spurs’ review show (Tottenham Hotspur Official Website, 5 January).
Postecoglou said, “It was special, and I probably had the best view in the house. As soon as it left his boot it was going in. Credit to Pedro. He’s been outstanding for us this year. He works awfully hard at his game, but he’s also an exceptional footballer.”
The use of the word “exceptional” is certainly strong, but also difficult to disagree with after Porro’s performance on the night and throughout the season.
In addition to his goal, the right-back won eight ground duels, made four tackles, three interceptions, one clearance and blocked one shot (Sofascore).
Going forward he completed 83 per cent of his passes, with three of those being key, and was successful with two of the three dribbles which he attempted.
Porro is clearly a fan of playing Burnley, adding this goal to the incredible assist he registered against them during the two clubs’ Premier League meeting at Turf Moor earlier this season, which finished 5-2 to the visitors (2 September 2023).
As seen in the image above, Porro picked up a position in midfield and spotted the run of Son Heung-min.
His pass was picture-perfect, with the ball rolling right into the path of the South Korean who finished for his hat trick.
After a shaky start to life in north London, Porro is now one of the first names on the teamsheet at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and dinner will certainly be on Postecoglou at the end of the season if the defender keeps this impressive form going.
In other Tottenham news, one Spurs expert has shared his verdict on the possibility of Joe Rodon making his switch to Leeds United permanent in January.