Ange Postecoglou described Tottenham’s 3-1 victory over AFC Bournemouth on New Year’s Eve as “a battle,” and at one point in the late stages of the second half, it seemed like that term might be taken quite literally.
The early lead secured by Spurs against the Cherries set the tone for the rest of the game, but as the match approached its conclusion, tensions flared on the sidelines.
As Alejo Veliz sustained an injury late in the second half, Postecoglou advised him to receive treatment, a decision that didn’t sit well with some members of the Bournemouth staff. This led to a confrontation between the coaching staff of both teams, with verbal arguments and physical contact occurring between Postecoglou and his Bournemouth counterpart, Andoni Iraola. Consequently, both the Spurs manager and midfielder Giovani Lo Celso were booked.
The incident added an unexpected twist to a game that had already been settled. After the final whistle, Postecoglou humorously addressed the altercation when questioned by Sky Sports. When asked about the cause of the commotion and whether any words were exchanged with his Bournemouth counterpart, Postecoglou quipped, “We all just came together to wish each other a Happy New Year, mate, and make some resolutions.”
