Dane Scarlett scored the match-winner: in the 12th minute, slotting home the rebound after Manor Solomon's initial shot was saved. The goal came from a superb curling pass by captain Archie Gray.
Archie Gray captained a young Tottenham side: and impressed with his leadership, an early driving run, and the assist-creating pass that led to the opening goal.
De Zerbi kept most senior stars in reserve: , with players like Dominic Solanke, Micky van de Ven, Sandro Tonali, and Destiny Udogie not featuring in the first half. Key figures including Cristian Romero, Pedro Porro, and Djed Spence were absent due to post-World Cup commitments.
Youngsters shone for Spurs: 17-year-old Luca Williams-Barnett looked bright in the number 10 role, Jamie Donley earned an 8/10 rating for his midfield control, and goalkeeper Brandon Austin made two important saves.
Auckland FC proved a genuine test: as reigning A-League champions, with the Eden Park crowd providing a raucous atmosphere. The hosts pushed for an equalizer but couldn't breach Austin's goal.
Why this matters: For Tottenham, this match represents the beginning of a crucial reset after consecutive 17th-place Premier League finishes. The performance of young players signals the depth available to De Zerbi as he builds toward the new season. For Auckland FC, competing strongly against a Premier League side validates their rapid rise since forming in March 2024.
Tottenham's trip to New Zealand marked the club's first tour to the country in more than 50 years. The 30-hour journey across the globe brought a unique set of challenges, and De Zerbi's decision to rest his stars reflected both the travel demands and the need to evaluate fringe and academy players.
The XI that started against Auckland was notably young, with Archie Gray leading the side at just 19 years old. The player ratings from Football London reflected strong performances:
Brandon Austin (8/10): – Made a good early low save and a brave stop to deny Cosgrove late in the half.
Archie Gray (8/10): – Curled in a brilliant ball for Solomon that led to the opener. Led the young side well with composure beyond his years.
Jamie Donley (8/10): – Played a beautiful crossfield pass to Mikey Moore and kept things ticking in midfield.
Kota Takai (7/10): – Composed in central defense, sorting out a tricky defensive situation.
Luca Williams-Barnett (7/10): – The 17-year-old looked bright from the start, headed an early chance wide, and worked hard in and around the box.
Auckland FC's journey has been remarkable. Since forming in March 2024, the club won its first official match that October, topped the regular-season table with 53 points in its debut campaign, and captured its maiden A-League Championship after rebounding from a third-place finish. Manager Steve Corica now looks to defend that trophy starting in October.
Tottenham continues its tour with matches against Sydney FC (Wednesday) and Chelsea (Saturday) in Australia, plus further friendlies against Getafe, Hoffenheim (twice), and Brentford before the Premier League opener against Brentford on August 22.
Auckland FC will use this exercise to build fitness ahead of their A-League title defense beginning in October.
US streaming: Amazon Prime Video (11 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. PT Saturday)
UK streaming: SPURSPLAY subscription service (no UK TV broadcast)
New Zealand local: 3 p.m. NZST Sunday at Eden Park
Who scored the goal for Tottenham?
Dane Scarlett scored the only goal of the match in the 12th minute, firing home the rebound after Manor Solomon's shot was saved.
Why did Roberto De Zerbi field a young team?
Many senior players were either on post-World Cup rest, recovering from injuries, or being saved for upcoming matches against Sydney FC and Chelsea in Australia.
Which key Tottenham players were missing?
Pedro Porro, Cristian Romero, Djed Spence, and Marcos Senesi were tied up with post-World Cup commitments. Mohamed Kudus, Xavi Simons, Dejan Kulusevski, and Wilson Odobert were in London working through injuries. Rodrigo Bentancur and Pape Sarr were given extended leave.
How did Auckland FC perform?
The A-League champions pushed Tottenham hard, forcing goalkeeper Brandon Austin into two important saves. The hosts had chances but couldn't find an equalizer, showing they could compete with Premier League opposition.
What's next for Tottenham's pre-season tour?
Spurs face Sydney FC next Wednesday and Chelsea on Saturday in Australia, followed by friendlies against Getafe, Hoffenheim (twice), and Brentford before the Premier League season begins on August 22.
For Tottenham fans: The depth of young talent at the club is promising. Archie Gray's captaincy performance, Jamie Donley's midfield control, and Luca Williams-Barnett's energy suggest a bright future under De Zerbi's system.
For Auckland FC supporters: Your club more than held its own against a Premier League side. The defensive organization and attacking intent shown at Eden Park bode well for the A-League title defense.
For neutral soccer fans: This match was a reminder that pre-season friendlies offer a glimpse into squad depth and emerging talent. Watch for Gray and Donley to push for first-team minutes this season.
Key takeaway: Tottenham's rebuild under De Zerbi is still in its early stages, but the positive signs from young players offer hope after two difficult Premier League seasons.
Do you think Tottenham's young core can help the club climb the Premier League table this season? Or will the lack of senior minutes in pre-season cost them early points?
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