Besiktas 1-0 Spurs - Mauricio's verdict

Mauricio Pochettino felt we deserved more against Besiktas but conceded: “We had to score when we were on top.”

Roberto Soldado was denied twice as we controlled the first half and we were still dominating possession when Besiktas enjoyed their best spell just before the hour mark.

Cenk Tosun rattled the crossbar on 59 minutes and a minute later, the same player was there to turn home from Olcay Sahan’s assist for what turned out to be the only goal of the game.

We responded immediately but Roberto was left frustrated in front of goal again, first by a goal-saving block and then when a close-range effort from Paulinho’s corner was deflected just wide.

It was one of those nights at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul – where play was suspended twice due to floodlight failure – as Besiktas leapfrogged us to take top spot in Europa League, Group C. We ended up runners-up and both teams progress to the Round of 32 with the draw to follow on Monday.

“I’m disappointed because we dominated but in football, you need to score when you create chances and dominate,” said Mauricio.

“We had clear chances but we were unlucky in front of goal. This is football.

“One minute in the second half changed the game and it’s true, we dominated, but we needed to score. It’s disappointing because we deserved more.

“We need to stop thinking about the Europa League for the time being, focus on the Premier League and the Capital One Cup and in February, think about this competition again.”

Good news saw Kyle Walker return and complete 75 minutes on his first start since March.

“It was a good thing for us, he’s back after his injury after months out and it’s very good news, very important for the squad," added Mauricio.