Former Tottenham goalkeeper Paul Robinson says Thomas Frank's side were "masters of their own downfall" against a strong Paris St-Germain at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday.
He observed that, unlike in Sunday's north London derby, the commitment of Spurs players could not be questioned as they pressed high and showed a real competitive edge.
However, they were ultimately undone by momentary lapses that will always risk fatal punishment against the European champions.
"Masters of their own downfall, or at least the start of it, because for an hour they played so well," said Robinson on BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast. "They conceded two extremely good goals from Vitinha, which any team could have conceded.
"And then, inexplicable defending.
"Tottenham had a different attitude, with their application, their work rate, their pressing and they started higher up the field. There was a lot more to be positive about.
"Unlike at the weekend [against Arsenal], Frank can put his finger on things that went wrong rather than scratching his head and thinking he didn't recognise his team.
"If Sunday hadn't happened, then there would be no discussion about this game and the Tottenham setup.
"When the teams came out, we thought that they would play a back five but they didn't. They played a midfield that had legs, as in Archie Gray, Lucas Bergvall and Pape Matar Sarr they had three willing runners that would get back and plug the gaps while also supporting Randal Kolo Muani and Richarlison in offering an attacking threat."
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