Liverpool, currently leading the league, aim to maintain their position at the top and get back to winning ways after consecutive draws in the league, while Tottenham seeks to climb from mid-table and build on recent wins in the league and cup.
Recent Form and Standings
Tottenham Hotspur sits 10th in the Premier League standings with a record of seven wins, two draws, and seven losses. They recently ended a winless streak by defeating Southampton 5-0 in the league and securing a 4-3 victory over Manchester United in the EFL Cup quarterfinals. Although through to the semifinals, where they have drawn Sunday’s opponents, the nature of the result leaves some questions still to be answered. The back four looked very shaky and Fraser Forster had a nightmare in goal. Forster was to blame for two of the goals conceded. Having said all that, Spurs are still in the semifinal and the last two results have provided a much-needed boost for Ange Postecoglou’s side.
Liverpool lead the Premier League with 11 wins, three draws, and one loss. Their recent form includes a 2-1 victory against Southampton, extending their unbeaten run since September. Manager Arne Slot has downplayed title talk, emphasizing the need to assess standings after 19 games. They will be looking to get back to winning ways in the league though with Chelsea hot on their tails now only two points behind. Slot will also be keen to see a more assured defensive performance, having conceded two to Fulham and three at Newcastle.
Team News
Tottenham anticipate the return of Destiny Udogie and Timo Werner, bolstering a squad that has been plagued by injuries to key players like Cristian Romero and Richarlison. Despite these challenges, Postecoglou remains committed to his attacking philosophy.
Liverpool is expected to field a strong lineup, with Mohamed Salah in exceptional form. Salah is on the verge of making Premier League history by potentially becoming the first player to achieve double figures in both goals and assists before Christmas.
Tactical Overview
Tottenham’s attacking approach under Postecoglou has yielded high-scoring games, but defensive vulnerabilities remain a concern. The potential return of Udogie could provide more stability at the back. Liverpool’s high-pressing game and quick transitions, orchestrated by Salah and supported by a dynamic midfield, will test Tottenham’s defence.
Historical Context
In their last meeting at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Spurs secured a 2-1 victory. However, Liverpool has dominated the fixture historically, winning 27 of the 51 encounters since the 2000-01 season. Matches between these teams often produce late drama, with six Premier League games witnessing winning goals in the 90th minute—the highest for any fixture in the competition’s history.
Prediction
Liverpool are favourites to secure a victory and given both teams’ attacking prowess and Tottenham’s defensive issues, a high-scoring encounter is anticipated. Mo Salah and the Liverpool front three could enjoy a fruitful day against a struggling Spurs defence and backing him to score first might be the play.
First Goalscorer – Mo Salah at a Boosted Price of 9/2