Tottenham are into the semi-finals of the FA Cup. This is after a routine 3-0 win over Premier League rivals Swansea City. Two goals from Christain Eriksen and a fine run and finish from Erik Lamela sealed Spurs’ passage into the next round. The North London side dominated throughout. They could’ve added more had it not been for some fine stops from Swansea goalkeeper Kristoffer Nordfeldt. South Korean Heung Min Son also had a goal controversially ruled offside following a VAR review.
Tottenham Advance in FA Cup
Swansea sit just four points clear of the relegation zone and based on this result, it’s easy to see why. Their only attack of substance produced a brilliant double save by former Swan Michael Vorm. Substitute Luciano Narsingh had a fine striker with particularly his first touch and then on-loan Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham saw his close-range header pawed away by the Dutch goalkeeper.
Tottenham opened the scoring in the eleventh minute with a brilliant curling strike from just outside the box from Eriksen. Argentine Erik Lamela wrong-footed goalkeeper Nordfeldt as he passed the ball into the Swansea net just before half-time following a strong run. Eriksen then fired in his second of the game midway through the second half. His low strike proving too strong for the Swansea keeper. The Dane now has eight goals in nine appearances against the Welsh side and was the clear man of the match.
Lively Lucas
January signing Lucas Moura performed well in his first start against a Premier League side for Tottenham. The Brazilian used his pace well and nearly scored after a mazy run in the first half but the ball got caught under his feet and his effort was tame in the end. The Brazilian was electric throughout the first half and caused Swansea all kinds of problems. It’s an overused cliché but the phrase “everyone gets excited when the ball lands at his feet” is the perfect way to describe the former PSG man’s style of play.
Lucas faded somewhat in the second half and appeared tired. The winger had several opportunities to break through the Swansea defence. However, he appeared to lack match fitness to utilize his usual electric pace. This lack of fitness may be a reason why Manager Mauricio Pochettino has not started him in a Premier League fixture yet. Despite a more subdued second half, the Brazilian showed good technique and composure to assist Eriksen for the third goal of the game. Shortly after, he was substituted for striker Fernando Llorente.
Semi-Finals Bound
Tottenham now head to the last four of the oldest cup in world football. The semi-finals and final will both be held at Wembley, Tottenham’s ground for the season. Many critics have begun to suggest that playing at “home” may give Tottenham an unfair advantage. Regardless the FA Cup represents a big chance for the North London side to end their trophy drought. The only clubs left who are considered bigger or on par compared to Tottenham are Manchester United and Chelsea.
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