It was a tense Champions League debut for manager Thomas Frank, whose squad battled to preserve an early lead thanks to a stunning goalkeeping error.
Initial Gift for Spurs
The home team enjoyed a dream start when Lucas Bergvall delivered a close-range ball into the area, which unbelievably found its way into the goal after a mishandling by Villarreal's keeper Luiz Júnior.
The visitors pressed for an tying goal throughout the match, with Nicolas Pépé proving a persistent threat down the wing.
Contentious Incidents
Officiating decisions came under scrutiny, particularly when a Spurs defender challenged a Villarreal attacker on the verge of the area late in the match, but escape with a caution.
The Ivorian then curled the resulting dead ball inches off target, leaving Tottenham to sigh a collective sigh of relief.
Nervy Final Period
After the interval, Spurs looked content to defend their slender advantage, encouraging pressure from the Yellow Submarine.
Fresh legs were made by the two bosses, with the Ghanaian brought on to boos from the Spurs fans.
In spite of late efforts, Spurs held on to claim a crucial three points in their continental first match.
This proved a match defined by a single error and plenty of tense moments for both clubs.
The result marks a confident start to Spurs' European journey, though questions linger about their readiness to excel at this level.
