Fernandes scores on Tottenham debut in friendly win against MK Dons
Mateus Fernandes made an immediate impact for Tottenham, scoring a goal just three minutes into his debut during a behind-closed-doors friendly on Wednesday. The goal, described by Fernandes as the best of his career, secured a 1-0 victory over League One side MK Dons. The match, held at Hotspur Way, served as an early pre-season test for Roberto De Zerbi’s squad.
Fernandes, a summer acquisition from West Ham, struck a first-time volley from approximately 20 yards out. The ball found the top corner of the net after goalkeeper Craig MacGillivray punched a corner kick clear. Fernandes positioned himself to meet the clearance, sending the ball in off the inside of the post. This effort was the decisive moment in the match.
New Signings Feature Prominently
The friendly also saw other new arrivals make their first appearances for Tottenham. Sandro Tonali, who joined from Newcastle, partnered Fernandes in a midfield double pivot. Both players were substituted at half-time as De Zerbi made extensive changes to the lineup. During their time on the pitch, Fernandes and Tonali were noted for their midfield control, with Tonali demonstrating decisiveness on the ball and guiding his new teammates.
Goalkeeper Martin Dubravka also debuted for Spurs, coming on at the start of the second half for Antonin Kinsky. Dubravka, who arrived on a free transfer from Burnley in June, made a notable save from a close-range header. He reacted quickly to push a header from six yards over the bar, thwarting an attack at the near post. This save highlighted his alertness despite a relatively quiet outing for the goalkeepers.
The match provided an opportunity for De Zerbi to assess his players, particularly the new signings. The combined cost of Fernandes and Tonali, at £185m, has generated interest among fans eager to see how they will contribute to the team’s progress. While an opening pre-season friendly against a lower-division side is not a definitive measure, the performance offered glimpses of quality.
Match Details and Player Reactions
Former Tottenham defender Sebastian Bassong, speaking on the club’s media channels, expressed his admiration for Fernandes’ goal. Bassong praised the balance, quality, and connection demonstrated in the strike, comparing it to memorable goals such as Gareth Bale’s against Stoke City or Zinedine Zidane’s famous volley in the Champions League. Fernandes himself described the goal as his favourite of his career, stating, “I need to do this more and more times, to shoot outside of the box, I know that I can do it. This just gives me confidence for the rest of the days.”
The match also marked the return of Ben Davies, who had been out since January. Kota Takai and Manor Solomon also featured after loan spells last season. Despite controlling possession, Tottenham found clear-cut chances limited against MK Dons’ 5-4-1 formation. MacGillivray made saves from Dominic Solanke and Solomon before Fernandes’ goal. In the second half, Richarlison had a goal disallowed for offside, and Mikey Moore’s shot was blocked. Dubravka’s late save from Ben Wiles’ header ensured the clean sheet.
The Tottenham squad is scheduled to fly to New Zealand on Thursday for the next stage of their pre-season tour. They are set to play A-League side Auckland in a friendly at Eden Park on Sunday, with kick-off scheduled for 04:00 BST.
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Source: bbc.com
