Matthijs de Ligt believes the Reds proved their hunger once again after a thrilling 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur in North London.
The Reds struck first through Bryan Mbeumo’s powerful header and looked in control for much of the match. But a late surge from Spurs flipped the script as Mathys Tel and Richarlison scored in quick succession to turn the game around in the closing stages.
However, just when it seemed over, the Reds roared back. De Ligt rose highest to head home from a Bruno Fernandes corner, salvaging a dramatic point and silencing the home crowd.
The Dutch defender drew comparisons with last week’s 2-2 draw against Nottingham Forest, saying it showed the squad’s mentality.
“I think it’s the same as last week,” De Ligt told TNT Sports after the final whistle. “Last year, we lost against Forest, 1-0. Last season, we lost against Tottenham, 1-0.
“And today, and also last week, you see that we still have the fire in our belly to get a point, to get a goal.”
It wasn’t a vintage performance from either side, but the Reds had every reason to feel they deserved more from the match.
“Luckily, we got a point here,” De Ligt said. “I think we deserve more.
“I mean, first goal [from Spurs], I think it’s a little bit lucky. I broke the ball; it goes in, it’s a difficult situation.
“I’m a little bit upset about that, but in the end, I’m really proud of the team.”
Even after Benjamin Sesko limped off injured, leaving the Reds with 10 men, the team refused to fold.
“Even with 10 men, in that way, I’m really proud of the team,” the 26-year-old added. “The season is long, so in the end, if you don’t lose these kind of games, it’s always more important.
“We played a good game, and I think we could deserve a little more.”
The Reds may have fallen short of three points, but their response under pressure showed grit, belief, and that unmistakable “fire in the belly” that could define their season.
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