Antonio Conte has revealed that he stormed down the tunnel following his team’s last-minute winner at Bournemouth, fearing that the goal would be ruled out by VAR.
After his team’s last-minute goal against Sporting CP in Wednesday night’s Champions League match in North London, the Italian manager was sent off. He has now insisted that he needed to go somewhere calmer to digest the Bournemouth winner in case it was overturned again.
Kieffer Moore scored either side of halftime to give the Cherries a surprise two-goal lead over Spurs, who had lost their previous two Premier League games. Three goals in the final half-hour, however, turned the game on its head.
Ryan Sessegnon put the visitors ahead just before the hour mark, but Ben Davies equalized in the 73rd minute and substitute Rodrigo Bentancur scored in injury time. Conte left the stadium at this point to disappear down the tunnel before returning.
Normally, Conte cuts an animated figure on the touchline and would have celebrated a last-gasp winner with zeal. Despite sparking a remarkable comeback, Spurs manager remained unsatisfied with his team’s overall performance. He did, however, take time after full-time to thank the visiting fans.
“I came back when I knew the goal was consistent,” Conte said after the game. “I thought in my mind and heart that I might have a heart attack because I scored and then had a goal disallowed in two days.”
“I said I’d go down and then stay calm while waiting for the referee’s decision.” But, without a doubt, it was inspiring to see my players’ eagerness and reaction. I also repeat the nastiness they put on the pitch because I can see the desire to win this game in the eyes of my players. Also, when we drew 2-2, our only thought was to take the ball and start playing again.”
Conte continued, “This reaction was extremely positive, and I expect the same from my players.” There was a photograph of you walking through the tunnel. We were wondering if you’d had enough of the game.”