Mauricio Pochettino praises maturing Spurs after Juventus comeback in Champions League

TOTTENHAM boss Mauricio Pochettino praised his players after they salvaged a 2-2 draw against Juventus in Turin.

Tottenham were 2-0 down with just 10 minutes on the clock after Gonzalo Higuain's quick-fire brace.

But Harry Kane and Christian Eriksen salvaged a draw, giving Spurs hope of reaching the last eight of the Champions League.

Tottenham have beaten Manchester United and Arsenal in recent weeks, and also scraped a credible draw against Liverpool at Anfield.

And Pochettino thinks his side's draw with Juventus is more proof his side are maturing.

“Fantastic game. We were sloppy and conceded two goals in nine minutes, but the character we showed was fantastic,' he said.

'I want to congratulate the players – 2-0 down in Turin to a team so difficult to break down. We deserved a victory more than a draw.

“We are more mature now. In the last few weeks, the team are growing and have stepped up. It’s a good example of the capacity we have.

'The team was amazing in how they reacted.

“You need some luck always in football. The tie is open, Juventus are a massive team. We have the hope we can win in Wembley.”

Kane was also pleased with his side's efforts the final whistle.

'We could have done [capitulated], away from home in the Champions League. It showed character,' he said. 

'It was an excellent performance after that and we take two away goals to Wembley. Great result.

'I should have scored the header but you have to be ready for the next one and I finished it off.'

Tottenham welcome the Serie A champions to Wembley for the return leg on March 7.

Source: www.express.co.uk