Dane Scarlett and Richarlison scored in either half as Tottenham Hotspur opened their pre-season tour with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Auckland FC at Eden Park.
Playing in front of a record New Zealand men’s football crowd of 40, 112, Roberto De Zerbi handed opportunities to several young players after a long flight to Auckland.
De Zerbi had signaled his team selection before kick-off by rotating his side, noting pre-match that the fixture was “a chance for the young players.”
Tottenham took early control and opened the scoring in the 12th minute when Archie Gray delivered a cross into the penalty area for Manor Solomon.
Auckland goalkeeper Michael Woud parried Solomon’s initial strike, but Scarlett reacted fastest to tap in the rebound and give Tottenham an early lead.
The Premier League side continued to dictate tempo with youthful starters Luca Williams-Barnett and Jamie Donley featuring prominently in midfield during the first half.
Auckland sought a way back into the match, but Tottenham goalkeeper Brandon Austin made key saves, notably stopping Sam Cosgrove to preserve the advantage.
Austin’s sharp display between the posts proved decisive in thwarting the hosts’ attacks, ultimately earning him the Player of the Match award.
De Zerbi introduced fresh options around the hour mark, handing minutes to new signing Mateus Fernandes as Tottenham maintained steady control of the game.
The outcome was put beyond doubt in the 70th minute when Mathys Tel set up substitute Richarlison to fire home a left-footed strike.
Midfielder Sandro Tonali missed the match due to a minor injury, with De Zerbi confirming he suffered “one small problem” prior to leaving London.
Following on from a 1-0 win over MK Dons, Tottenham now head to Australia to face Sydney FC and Chelsea in the next stage of their tour.
