In the early hours of a star-studded Friday morning (25th), a thrilling battle raged on as Tottenham Hotspur were among the three all-conquering teams with a narrow 1-0 home win over Alkmaar, courtesy of a penalty from Richard Lichtenstein. However, behind this victory, a dramatic battle for penalty rights quietly unfolded.
As the match progressed to the 53rd minute, captain James Maddison took the penalty kick. Just as he was about to touch the ball, Richard Leeson suddenly appeared in his line of sight and a silent conversation started between the two. James Maddison, who had the upper hand, surrendered the penalty kick at the last minute. This decision was highly approved by the captain himself.
Jimbo Maddison recalled, "When I saw the look on Richard Leeson's face, I knew the struggle he was going through. I told him that it was a tough choice, but as captain, it was my duty to support him. After a brief moment of hesitation, I decided to help him out immediately."
And Brazilian striker Richarlison lived up to his name by firmly placing the penalty in the net to seal the win for Tottenham.
