Veteran defender Mats Hummels rescued a point for Claudio Ranieri’s Roma in a dramatic 2-2 draw with Tottenham in the Europa League.
The 35-year-old Germany international, returning to European action for the first time since July, endured a mixed evening. He conceded an early penalty—converted by Son Heung-min—but redeemed himself with a stoppage-time equalizer, tapping in Angelino’s pinpoint cross.
Spurs dominated the first half, with Brennan Johnson doubling their lead after Evan N’Dicka had briefly leveled for Roma. However, the London side missed several chances to extend their advantage, with Son, Johnson, and Dominic Solanke all spurning opportunities.
Roma, despite having three goals ruled out for offside, grew into the game. Angelino’s volley rattled the bar, and Fraser Forster—standing in for injured keeper Guglielmo Vicario—made a stunning late save from Gianluca Mancini, only to be beaten moments later by Hummels.
Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou made four late substitutions but couldn’t stem Roma’s momentum. With the draw, Tottenham remain ninth in the standings, needing results against Rangers, Hoffenheim, and Elfsborg to secure progression.
Meanwhile, Roma impressed under the stewardship of 73-year-old Claudio Ranieri, who came out of retirement to manage his boyhood club for the third time.
“It’s a tough result to take,” Postecoglou admitted post-match. “We had chances to finish the game but let it slip. We’ll regroup for the next challenge.”
Match Highlights
- Key Moment: Hummels’ stoppage-time equalizer
- Standout Player: Fraser Forster, who made six crucial saves
- What’s Next: Spurs face Rangers in a must-win clash, while Roma’s resurgence under Ranieri continues.
Spurs face mounting pressure to secure their place in the next stage, while Roma’s spirited performance keeps their campaign alive.
