Tottenham Hotspur secured a 1-0 victory against Villarreal in their Champions League opener, marking a successful start to their campaign. The match was decided by an early, unusual own goal from Villarreal's goalkeeper, Luiz Junior. The victory also marked Thomas Frank's first Champions League win as a manager.

The decisive moment occurred in the fourth minute when Villarreal's goalkeeper, Luiz Junior, fumbled a cross from Lucas Bergvall into his own net. Despite the early lead, neither side managed to create many clear-cut chances throughout the game. Tottenham's fastest goal in Champions League history gave them an early advantage.

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium hosted a vibrant atmosphere as Tottenham returned to the Champions League. Spurs qualified for the Champions League after winning the Europa League last season. Under the new format, the team will play eight different opponents in the league phase.

Despite the early goal, Tottenham "struggled to capitalize" and "rarely threatened a second goal". Villarreal, after the break, posed an increasing threat. Nicolas Pepe, formerly of Arsenal, had several opportunities, including a late free-kick that narrowly missed the target. Villarreal's defeat extends their winless streak against English teams in the Champions League to 15 games.

Thomas Frank acknowledged his team's defensive solidity but admitted they need to improve offensively. He praised Villarreal's organized defense, which limited Tottenham's attacking opportunities. He also noted that new signings like Xavi Simons need time to build chemistry with the team. "I thought it was a big win. In any competition it's good to get three points and get a good start," Frank said.

Tottenham's lineup included Vicario, Porro, Van de Ven, Romero, and Spence in defense; Sarr, Bergvall, and Bentancur in midfield; and Kudus, Simons, and Richarlison in attack. Villarreal started with Luiz Junior in goal; Foyth, Mikautadze, Renato Veiga, and Comesana in defense; Mourino, Buchanan, Gueye, and Pepe in midfield; and Ayoze Perez and Cardona in attack.

Other games on the same night saw Arsenal defeat Athletic Bilbao 2-0 and Real Madrid edge Marseille 2-1. Juventus and Borussia Dortmund played out a thrilling 4-4 draw. Union Saint-Gilloise and Qarabag both secured their first-ever Champions League victories.

Tottenham's next Champions League match is away against Bodo/Glimt. Villarreal will host Juventus.