Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario was accused of time-wasting by Monaco boss Sebastien Pocognoli after producing a heroic performance in the Champions League.
Vicario made several vital saves to help Spurs earn a goalless draw away at Monaco, frustrating the home side throughout the encounter.
Pocognoli admitted Vicario was “outstanding” but criticised the goalkeeper for delaying play, claiming he took too long with goal kicks and free-kicks repeatedly.
“He made some great saves, but he wasted a lot of time between each restart,” Pocognoli told reporters after the intense Champions League clash.
Monaco dominated proceedings with 23 shots on goal, but Vicario stood tall, denying them on multiple occasions to secure Tottenham a crucial point.
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It was the club’s first goalless draw since March 2023, ending a run of 125 consecutive matches featuring at least one goal scored.
Spurs manager Thomas Frank accepted Monaco were the better side in the second half but praised Vicario’s efforts for keeping the team alive.
“We didn’t hit our usual performance level,” Frank admitted. “The intensity dropped, but Vicario made a massive difference tonight with his calm presence.”
Frank also acknowledged the learning curve Tottenham face balancing Premier League and Champions League demands, insisting his players will grow from tough experiences.
“Every away game in Europe is difficult,” Frank continued. “We take the point and move forward together. A clean sheet matters significantly.”
Tottenham remain 15th in the Champions League group stage after three matches, needing improvement to progress further, reports Daily Mail.
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