Fernandes and Tonali make Tottenham debuts
Mateus Fernandes scored a goal described as the best of his career within three minutes of his Tottenham debut during a behind-closed-doors friendly on Wednesday. The 22-year-old, a signing from West Ham, struck a first-time volley from 20 yards into the top corner, via the post, to secure a 1-0 victory over League One side MK Dons. Fernandes positioned himself to meet MK Dons goalkeeper Craig MacGillivray’s long punch clear from a corner before unleashing his shot.
Fernandes expressed his satisfaction with the goal, stating, “It was my favourite goal of my career. By a mile.” He added that he needs to continue to shoot from outside the box, knowing he is capable, and that the goal provides confidence for future matches.
Alongside Fernandes in a midfield double pivot was Sandro Tonali, who also made his first appearance for Tottenham since joining from Newcastle. Both players were substituted at half-time as manager Roberto de Zerbi made changes. During their time on the pitch, the pair reportedly dominated the midfield, with Tonali influencing play and guiding his new teammates.
Other debutants and pre-season schedule
Goalkeeper Martin Dubravka also made his debut for Tottenham, having joined on a free transfer from Burnley in June. He entered the match at half-time, replacing Antonin Kinsky. Dubravka made a save from close range, pushing a header from six yards over the bar, to thwart an attack at the near post.
The friendly against MK Dons was part of Tottenham’s pre-season preparations, which will continue with a tour of New Zealand and Australia. The club’s pre-season fixtures include several matches that will be streamed live on SPURSPLAY.
The upcoming schedule for the Men’s First Team includes:
- Auckland FC vs Spurs – Sunday 26 July – 4am (UK)
- Sydney FC vs Spurs – Wednesday 29 July – 10.45am (UK)
- Chelsea vs Spurs – Saturday 1 August – 10.45am (UK)
- Spurs vs Getafe CF – Saturday 8 August – 3pm (UK)
- Spurs vs TSG Hoffenheim – Saturday 15 August – 3pm (UK)
- Spurs vs TSG Hoffenheim – Sunday 16 August – 12noon
Tottenham is scheduled to fly to New Zealand on Thursday for their pre-season tour, where they will play A-League side Auckland in a friendly at Eden Park on Sunday, with kick-off at 04:00 BST.
Club’s recent trajectory and media coverage
The club’s fortunes have reportedly seen an upward shift recently, moving from a Premier League relegation battle to securing survival and then bringing in two significant signings. This trajectory has occurred under manager De Zerbi, who took over after Igor Tudor’s tenure last season.
Former Tottenham defender Sebastian Bassong, speaking on the club’s media channels, praised Fernandes’ goal, comparing it to notable strikes by Gareth Bale and Zinedine Zidane. Bassong highlighted the balance, quality, and connection demonstrated by Fernandes, describing him as a gifted player.
Supporters have shown interest in how Fernandes and Tonali, acquired for a combined cost of £185m, might contribute to the team’s progress. The friendly against MK Dons, while not a full test, offered moments of quality for fans to observe.
SPURSPLAY, the club’s video platform, will provide live coverage of all seven Men’s First Team pre-season matches, including those played behind closed doors at Hotspur Way. The platform also offers access to Under-18 and Under-21 home matches, select Under-21 away matches, and Women’s First Team matches throughout the 2026/27 season.
A SPURSPLAY subscription is included as a benefit for One Hotspur+ Members and Season Ticket Holders, or can be purchased annually for £45, with a reduced rate of £35 for One Hotspur Members.
Read Also
Source: bbc.com
As Latest News UK's Sports Reporter, Hannah Whitfield reports on tennis, cricket and athletics for readers across the country. She built her name covering the county circuit and Team GB at two Commonwealth Games. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from Loughborough University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Hannah lives in Bristol, where she plays club tennis and coaches a junior side. “Sport is at its best when you let the athletes tell the story.”