Tottenham gets a Champions League point in Monaco despite a poor showing

He was a hero for Tottenham, brilliant throughout, making four saves in the first half, three from former Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun and then another when he blocked Magnes Akleush’s effort.

Vicario made saves from both Balogun and Akleuch again after the break, as did substitute Alexander Golovin, but the best came from a shot from Jordan Tiese when it seemed certain that Monaco would get the goal they deserved.

Manager Frank said: “I thought he was very good today. I thought some of the saves were exceptional. He’s a big part of the reason why we got a tough point, but at the end of the day, it can be a decisive point.”

Even then, Spurs were grateful for the woeful finish of Liverpool’s former Japanese Monaco midfielder Takumi Minamino, who squandered three brilliant late chances, much to the growing frustration of the home fans, who increasingly feared becoming victims of possession as the chances passed.

Spurs currently sit in 15th place in the Champions League table, and their next two matches are at home to FC Copenhagen, then away to defending champions Paris Saint-Germain, who will not be as forgiving as Monaco if they get the kind of license they have offered here.

Tottenham celebrated their entry into the Champions League as a sign of serious progress, but are still adjusting to the demands of Europe’s elite tournament.

They were uncomfortable from the start, encouraging the home fans to turn up the noise levels inside a unique arena that is one of the least hostile places Spurs are likely to visit as the Champions League progresses.

It will certainly be different when they enter the Bears’ territory that will be Princes Park on November 26. They will not get away with a point if they repeat this modest and unambitious effort.

Vicario was not the only standout player, as Micky van de Ven, captain in the absence of the injured Cristian Romero, did his best to ensure Monaco stayed at bay.

Former Tottenham defender Eric Dier, who was denied the chance to face his old club due to injury, received a standing ovation from his fans as he wandered onto the pitch in the first half while Paul Pogba watched from the stands as he awaited his Monaco debut after signing in June.

He was allowed to resume his career in March after the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled that his four-year doping ban was reduced to 18 months.

Tottenham have not impressed in the Champions League despite having yet to lose, but this was not the kind of performance that offers hope for the future in this tournament.