A virtual full strength Tottenham side were humbled 1-0 by Belgian minnows Gent in the first-leg of their Europa League last 32 clash.
Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino is confident of a top-four finish, but winning the Europa League would also guarantee a place in the Champions League – but they clearly have some work to do at White Hart Lane in the second-leg next week.
The only goal of the game arrived came on the hour through journeyman French striker Jeremy Perbet – which came after Harry Kane had hit the post.
Hugo Lloris turned another Gent chance onto his post as both sides had chances, but it is the Belgian outfit – currently eighth in their top-flight – who hold the advantage going into the return leg.
Spurs began the day rated as 8/1 second favourites behind Premier League rivals Manchester United to win the title – and Jose Mourinho’s men remain at the head of the market after they secured a 3-0 triumph over St Etienne at Old Trafford.
Pogbros! Paul catches up with his brother, Saint-Etienne defender Florentin, ahead of kick-off. #MUFC #UEL pic.twitter.com/f17lUJqJeW
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 16, 2017
The battle of the Pogba bros, with Paul and Florentin facing each other, went the way of the younger one, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic continue his fine form against Les Verts.
The Swedish legend helped himself to a hat-trick to continue his brilliant season with The Red Devils. He has now scored 17 goals in 14 games against St Etienne.
Man United have firmed up their place as favourites for the title and their odds have been cut to 11/4 by BetVictor, whilst the likes of Roma, Lyon, Schalke and Shakthar Donetsk have all seen their odds cut after first-leg wins.
A @Ibra_official hat-trick has put @ManUtd in a comfortable position ahead of next Wednesday's return fixture. #MUNSTE #UEL pic.twitter.com/TWFAqIZPMj
— BT Sport Football (@btsportfootball) February 16, 2017
A deflected @Ibra_official free-kick has given @ManUtd the lead at Old Trafford. #MUNSTE #UEL pic.twitter.com/h0SjTC4n1F
— BT Sport Football (@btsportfootball) February 16, 2017