Tottenham recorded their first Premier League victory at Wembley as Christian Eriksen’s second-half winner saw off a resolute Bournemouth.
Having picked up maximum points from their four league games on the road this season, it was Spurs’ first win in four attempts at their temporary home.
Bournemouth’s back five stifled Spurs in the first half, but Eriksen gave the hosts the lead immediately after the break with a smart left-footed finish.
Jermain Defoe almost levelled against his old side after coming off the bench, but Hugo Lloris was equal to the striker’s low effort.
It was Tottenham captain Lloris’ second big save of the match after Eric Dier nearly turned a Bournemouth corner into his own net in the first half.
Asmir Begovic was kept busier at the other end, but got the better of Harry Kane on several occasions in a frustrating afternoon for the England striker.
Spurs off the mark at Wembley
Tottenham’s struggles in the league at Wembley have been well documented and, an important Champions League victory against Borussia Dortmund aside, Spurs are yet to really impress at their temporary home.
Defeat to champions Chelsea on the opening day of the Premier League and draws with Burnley and Swansea have seen Spurs struggle to break down sides that looked to sit behind the ball and make it difficult for the hosts.
Eddie Howe’s Bournemouth are more renowned for their expansive football, but the visitors set up with a back five and it looked like Tottenham’s frustrations at the national stadium might continue.
But, having started with a back four, Mauricio Pochettino changed to a back three after the break and it worked almost instantly as Eriksen linked up with Son Heung-min to score what proved the winner.
The Dane then forced Cherries goalkeeper Begovic into a fine save with another well-hit effort from the edge of the box, as Spurs exploited the space left as Bournemouth looked for an equaliser.
It could have been a more comfortable win, but for Begovic twice denying Kane from close range within the space of a few seconds.
BBC Sports