Our Stadium at 5: A moment Dele will 'never forget'

Our former forward who made over 250 appearances for the Club before departing for Everton in January, 2022, was one of the first players to be glorified in our new home on that Glory, Glory night as the audible power of our new 17,500 fan-packed South Stand was realised - and that was more than 20 minutes before the game had even kicked off

As the atmosphere cranked up as our supporters and players alike got settled into their new surroundings back home in N17, the squad warmed-up in front of the South Stand as they prepared to face Crystal Palace in the Premier League and it was there were Dele received an incredible welcome.

As the team began to go through their pre-match sprints with the fitness coaches on the South Stand touchline, the ‘Wall’ let rip with ‘we’ve got Alli, Dele Alli, I just don’t think you understand...’, the sound quickly reverberating around the arena as all stands joined in.

A moment that will live long in the memory of our former number 20...

Watch - Fans show Dele their support on opening night at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

“It was an unbelievable feeling, a moment I’ll never forget,” he said on that night, five years ago today. “Just how loud it was... it was scary! It was an amazing feeling.

“I didn’t know if it was that loud because of how close we were to the South Stand, or if it was just loud!” We quickly confirmed it was 'just loud'. “Yes, and as I said, it was an amazing feeling to be part of that.”

Speaking back at Hotspur Way a few days after the game, Dele had further reflections on the 2-0 win against Palace - the business end of a night of celebration completed in style as we dominated from start to finish.

Lining-up in a slightly deeper role in midfield, Dele played his part as we racked up 26 efforts at goal. Indeed, he had the first chance, a downward header that unfortunately went straight at Palace goalkeeper Vincente Guaita, otherwise we’d have been speaking about another first!

That first went to Heung-Min Son, who scored the maiden first-team goal at the stadium after 55 minutes. Christian Eriksen wrapped up the precious three points 10 with a close-range strike 10 minutes from time.

“It was an amazing experience and a night we’ll always remember,” added Dele. “The supporters were incredible but we all knew we still had a job to do. The main thing for us was to get the three points. It was the perfect way to cap a great day by getting that win.”