A massive, unifying night in Europe for Tottenham, who defied even their strongest critics by delivering a historic win against Borussia Dortmund in London last night.
The result provides a timely boost for under-pressure manager Thomas Frank. The result propelled Spurs up to fourth in the league phase table, securing their place in the top 24 and a play-off spot, while keeping alive hopes of direct qualification to the round of 16 depending on other results.
Fan reaction to the game was one of sheer relief, after what had been a turbulent time at Spurs. Under-pressure Thomas Frank received a much-needed boost as an impressive first-half display saw Tottenham beat 10-man Borussia Dortmund. The Guardian described it as a “contender for shock result of the season,” noting how Spurs defied expectations against a strong Dortmund side (second in the Bundesliga with few losses). It praised the dominant first-half display and how the win eased pressure on Frank, though it cautioned that league form remains precarious ahead of upcoming fixtures like Burnley.
The fans’ frustration was perhaps evident at kick-off with several empty seats in the upper tiers of the ground, but Tottenham’s encouraging start will have allayed fears that a fourth successive loss was on the cards.
This caution was echoed perhaps most loudly by a significant voice in the Change For Tottenham movement.
Right, now that’s over, sign some players
— Billie (@Billie_T) January 20, 2026
The January 17 protest by Change For Tottenham occurred amid Tottenham’s struggles (e.g., sitting low in the table under manager Thomas Frank, recent defeats, and toxicity around the club). It followed statements from Change for Tottenham urging investment and accountability. Some fans shifted focus to in-stadium actions or boycotts, but the group emphasises supporting the team on the pitch while pressuring leadership.
NBC Sports and others suggested the win might “buy Frank another game,” crediting the energy, spirit, and performance despite absences.
Overall, media consensus viewed it as a positive step in Europe—where Tottenham have been far stronger than domestically—but stressed the need to translate this form into Premier League wins to truly relieve pressure on Frank.
