Tottenham’s pre-season begins with Mateus Fernandes’ stunning debut goal

By Harry Sutton — 22 July 2026 — 3 min read

Tottenham commenced their pre-season schedule with a 1-0 victory over League One side MK Dons, a match highlighted by a spectacular debut goal from new signing Mateus Fernandes. The friendly, played behind closed doors, saw manager Roberto de Zerbi utilize 21 players, integrating several new arrivals into the squad.

Fernandes, who joined from West Ham, scored within three minutes of his first appearance. The midfielder met a high ball from an MK Dons goalkeeper’s punch clear and struck a first-time volley from 20 yards, which found the top corner via the post. He described it as his “favourite goal of [his] career. By a mile,” adding that it gives him confidence for future matches.

New Signings Make an Impact

Alongside Fernandes, two other summer signings also featured. Sandro Tonali, a record signing from Newcastle, partnered Fernandes in a midfield double pivot. The duo played for the first 45 minutes, with Tonali demonstrating decisiveness on the ball and guiding new teammates. Former Spurs defender Sebastian Bassong praised Fernandes’ strike, noting his balance, quality, and connection with the ball.

Goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, who joined on a free transfer from Burnley, made his debut in the second half, replacing Antonin Kinsky. Dubravka, at 37 years old, made a sharp save from a close-range header, reacting quickly to push the ball over from six yards. His performance suggested he could be a valuable deputy to Kinsky, who started the game and appeared assured.

The combined cost of Fernandes and Tonali is reported to be £185m, with Fernandes costing £85m and Tonali £100m. Their early performances have generated excitement among fans, particularly given Tottenham’s recent upward trajectory after avoiding a Premier League relegation battle last season.

Youth and Absentees

The friendly also provided an opportunity for younger players to impress, as several senior squad members were absent. Players like Guglielmo Vicario and Destiny Udogie were not involved in the match. Other summer signings, including Andy Robertson and Jan Paul van Hecke, also watched from the sidelines, having recently returned from the World Cup.

Among the younger players, Luca Williams-Barnett, a 17-year-old attacking midfielder, showed confidence and fearlessness in a deeper role. He delivered a precise pass that led to a missed open-goal chance. Mikey Moore, an 18-year-old, also caught the eye playing on the left, while 21-year-old midfielder Rio Kyerematen played the entire 90 minutes, demonstrating versatility by covering both left-back and right-back positions.

These young talents will aim to further their case for inclusion in De Zerbi’s plans during the upcoming pre-season tour. The club’s academy has seen some sales recently, with Will Lankshear, Tynan Thompson, and Alfie Devine departing.

Upcoming Pre-Season Schedule

Tottenham’s pre-season continues with a tour of New Zealand and Australia. The team is scheduled to fly to New Zealand on Thursday. Their next fixture is against A-League side Auckland FC at Eden Park on Sunday, with kick-off at 04:00 BST.

The pre-season schedule includes several other matches:

• Auckland FC vs Spurs – Sunday 26 July – 4am (UK)
• Sydney FC vs Spurs – Wednesday 29 July – 10.45am (UK)
• Chelsea vs Spurs – Saturday 1 August – 10.45am (UK)
• Spurs vs Getafe CF – Saturday 8 August – 3pm (UK)
• Spurs vs TSG Hoffenheim – Saturday 15 August – 3pm (UK)
• Spurs vs TSG Hoffenheim – Sunday 16 August – 12noon

Fans can watch these pre-season matches live on SPURSPLAY, the club’s video platform, which also offers access to youth and women’s team matches, as well as an archive of historical content.

Source: bbc.com