Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Tottenham opened their pre-season tour with a 2-0 win over Auckland FC at Eden Park on Sunday, as Dane Scarlett and Richarlison scored for the Premier League club. The match drew 40,112 spectators, setting a record attendance for a men’s football match in New Zealand.
Roberto De Zerbi rested several senior players after the long journey, but Tottenham controlled the contest in damp conditions. The crowd surpassed the previous national record of 37,034, set when New Zealand faced Peru in a 2017 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
More Australian football coverage is available in Cristian Volpato Allegedly Returns Positive Cocaine Test After Sydney Traffic Stop.
Dane Scarlett opened the scoring in the 12th minute after Auckland FC goalkeeper Michael Woud parried a shot from Manor Solomon. The Tottenham academy forward reacted first and finished the loose ball.
Mateus Fernandes entered with 30 minutes remaining before Tottenham added a second goal through two other substitutes. Mathys Tel drove into the penalty area and supplied Richarlison with a simple finish.
“It’s a chance for the young players,” Roberto De Zerbi told TVNZ before kick-off.
“After a very long trip, we can’t take a risk with the players who are not ready to play yet.”
Jan Paul van Hecke and Andy Robertson were not considered ready, while Sandro Tonali missed the game because of what Roberto De Zerbi described as “one small problem”.
Tottenham will continue their tour in Sydney with matches against Sydney FC and Chelsea. Official club updates are available through the Tottenham Hotspur website.