Tottenham Hotspur claimed three important points in their pursuit of knockout UEFA Europa League (UEL) football, defeating Bundesliga strugglers TSG Hoffenheim 1899 3-2 to ensure they start the final round of league phase fixtures inside the top eight.

Tottenham Hotspur sealed a 3-2 win at Hoffenheim in the Europa League on Thursday, boosting their hopes of automatic qualification for the last 16 and leaving the Germans fretting over elimination. Son Heung Min's brace means the inconsistent north London side are up to fourth - pending later matches - and look well-placed ahead of a final round of league games next Thursday when they host Sweden's Elfsborg.

Tottenham Hotspur captain Son Heung-min scored in each half to earn his side a 3-2 victory at Hoffenheim in the Europa League on Thursday. Spurs were quickly into their stride with James Maddison opening the scoring in the third minute with a deft finish from a long pass,