Bale’s super show leaves Spurs in strong position to win Group A

Although Gareth Bale’s heroic night in Milan still meant Tottenham returned back to England pointless, the importance of his display against Inter may become more meaningful later on in the Champions League.

Inter’s victory moved them three points clear of second-placed Tottenham in Group A, but there is every chance that this deficit can be reduced.

Winning at home in Europe has been statistically proven to be easier than winning away, with factors such as reduced travel and greater support among the benefits.

Two of Tottenham’s three remaining Group A games are at White Hart Lane, including their next outing which is at home to Inter.

Harry Redknapp’s team showed what can be achieved with ten men in the second half at the San Siro and that can only bleed confidence ahead of the return game.

A win there would move the pair level on points and Bale’s second-half hat-trick has done more than enhance the team’s confidence.

It has also had a significant bearing on the goal difference, which could have a major say on who ends up finishing on top of Group A.

At half-time, Inter were nine goals ahead of Spurs on goal difference and could still look forward to a second half with a man advantage.

However, by the end this gap had been reduced to just three and Tottenham’s price of 4/1 to top Group A could be worth taking.

Top spot in a group has been decided on goal difference in one group in three of the last four seasons and a win by two goals at White Hart Lane over Inter would put Spurs in the driving seat in this department.

Meanwhile, last year’s Champions League winners are currently 1/5 to top Group A thanks to their current three-point cushion.

Tottenham’s price has shortened to 25/1 to win the Champions League after beginning the season at 33/1. See the full Champions League winners market.