Tottenham Hotspur will have to come from behind to get a result against AEL Limassol after heading into the half-time interval a goal down in the first leg of their Europa League playoff tie in Cyprus.

Mauricio Pochettino's side controlled the possession early in the opening stages with Lewis Holtby and Nabil Bentaleb linking up well, but the Cypriots' compact defence prevented Spurs from finding an early breakthrough.

Harry Kane and Roberto Soldado both had early opportunities, but neither could find their feet to make it count, while Paulinho had a chance minutes later, but the Brazilian dragged his shot wide.

Having struggled to show much attacking intent, AEL took the lead against the run of play in the 14th minute after Adrian Sardinero stormed through Tottenham's defence to slot the ball past goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.

The North London outfit came close to responding instantly when Kane fed the ball into the path of Paulinho from the edge of the box, but the Brazilian was unable to connect and unleash a shot.

AEL grew into the game after taking the lead, but struggled to create any chances that tested Lloris on his goal.