Hugo Ekitike reacts to his goal against Spurs | OneFootball

Hugo Ekitike Defends Decisive Goal as Liverpool Overcome Spurs in Chaotic Premier League Clash

Liverpool edged past Spurs in a frenetic Premier League encounter, but it was Hugo Ekitike’s late goal – and the debate surrounding it – that dominated the post-match conversation. The forward was adamant that his winning contribution was legitimate, dismissing suggestions of a foul in the build-up and underlining his growing influence since arriving at Anfield.

In a match defined by momentum swings, red cards and moments of controversy, Liverpool emerged with three points that could yet prove significant in the title race. For Spurs, it was another night of frustration, shaped as much by discipline issues as by fine margins in both penalty areas.

Tottenham Hotspur v Liverpool, Premier League Hugo Ekitike of Liverpool celebrating his goal to make it 0-2 during the Tottenham Hotspur v Liverpool Premier League match at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London, England on 20 December 2025 Credit: Dylan Hepworth/Every Second Media Editorial use only. All images are copyright Every Second Media Limited. No images may be reproduced without prior permission. All rights reserved. Premier League and Football League images are subject to licensing agreements with Football DataCo Limited. see https://www.football-dataco.com Copyright: xIMAGO/EveryxSecondxMediax ESM-1717-0064 DylanxHepworthx/xEveryxSecondxMediax

Ekitike response to Romero challenge

The decisive moment arrived late in the second half when Ekitike met a dangerous cross inside the box, guiding the ball past the goalkeeper under pressure from Cristian Romero. Spurs players immediately appealed, believing the Liverpool forward had fouled the defender in the aerial duel.

Ekitike was clear in his assessment afterwards. He insisted his movement and timing were superior, arguing that he simply read the flight of the ball better than his opponent. From Liverpool’s perspective, the goal stood because the officials saw no clear infringement, and VAR did not intervene.

The incident added to an already volatile atmosphere inside the stadium. Spurs had been reduced to nine men by the final whistle, with Romero among those dismissed, compounding a difficult evening for the home side.

Liverpool control amid Spurs chaos

Liverpool had started the match strongly, taking an early lead and showing an ability to manage long spells of pressure. Spurs, backed by a loud home crowd, attempted to force their way back into the contest, but their aggression repeatedly crossed the line into recklessness.

Despite a late rally that briefly threatened to swing the momentum, Liverpool’s composure told. Even when Spurs pulled a goal back, the visitors maintained their shape and resisted the urge to retreat too deeply.

Ekitike’s presence up front proved vital. Beyond the winning goal, his hold-up play and intelligent movement offered an outlet when Liverpool needed to slow the tempo. It was a performance that highlighted why the club moved decisively to secure his services.

Form surge strengthens Ekitike case

The goal against Spurs marked Ekitike’s fifth in three league appearances, an impressive return that reflects his rapid adaptation to Premier League football. After early scrutiny and competition for places, the forward has responded with maturity, patience and decisive contributions.

His confidence is growing, and so too is his understanding of Liverpool’s attacking structure. The Spurs match showcased a striker willing to battle physically while retaining composure in key moments, a combination that Liverpool have often relied upon in tight away fixtures.

Coaching staff will be encouraged by his willingness to contribute beyond scoring. His role in the build-up to earlier chances, as well as his defensive work from the front, added balance to Liverpool’s overall display.

Spurs frustration and disciplinary fallout

For Spurs, the evening will prompt serious reflection. Losing control emotionally proved costly, with two red cards leaving them unable to sustain their late push. While the home side showed fight, their discipline undermined any chance of a meaningful comeback.

The Romero dismissal, in particular, will be scrutinised internally. His involvement in the disputed goal and subsequent sending-off summed up a night where composure deserted Spurs at critical moments.

Liverpool, by contrast, departed with renewed belief. Victories of this nature – hard-fought, controversial and away from home – often shape seasons. Ekitike’s goal may yet be remembered as one of those defining contributions.